How to Report a Power Outage in Your Area

When the lights go out, your priority should be safety. Learn how to report a power outage in your area quickly, track restoration progress, and prepare for future disruptions so that you can stay informed, connected, and ready for anything.

Because different cities fall under different TDSPs, Transmission and Distribution Service Providers, the process varies slightly depending on your location.

Many utility companies maintain dedicated outage hotlines. When calling:

• Have your address and account number ready
• Note the approximate start time of the outage
• Report any safety hazards, like downed power lines or flooding

Providing precise details allows the utility company to respond efficiently and prioritize restoration efforts.

• TDU: CenterPoint Energy
• How to report: Call 1-800-332-7143 or 713-207-2222, or use CenterPoint’s Outage Tracker
• Coverage: Houston metro and surrounding areas

• TDU: Oncor Electric Delivery
• How to report: Call 888-313-4747 or text OUT to 66267, or check Oncor’s outage map
• Coverage: DFW metroplex, Waco, Midland–Odessa, much of North and Central Texas

• Utility: CPS Energy (municipally owned)
• How to report: Call 210-353-HELP (4357) or use the CPS Energy Outage Map
• Coverage: San Antonio and surrounding areas

• Utility: Austin Energy (municipally owned)
• How to report: Call 512-322-9100, text OUT to 287846, or use the Austin Energy Outage Map
• Coverage: Austin metro area

• TDU: AEP Texas Central
• How to report: Call 1-877-373-4858 or visit AEP Texas Outage Center
• Coverage: Corpus Christi, Laredo, McAllen, Rio Grande Valley

• Utility: Lubbock Power & Light
• How to report: Call 806-775-2509 or use LP&L Outage Center
• Coverage: Lubbock metro area

Before making a call, the fastest way to confirm whether your power outage is widespread or isolated is to check your utility’s online outage map. Most major providers, such as Oncor, CenterPoint, and AEP Texas, maintain real-time, interactive maps that display the number of customers affected, the cause of outages (when known), and estimated restoration times.

In Texas, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) oversees the flow of electricity for about 90% of the state. This unique, mostly self-contained grid means that outage management often looks a little different here than in other states. Utilities share outage data with ERCOT in real time, allowing for coordinated responses across large regions. When you check a Texas utility’s outage map, you’re often seeing the same data that informs ERCOT’s grid-level decision-making.

If the map indicates that your neighborhood is already listed as part of a larger area experiencing an outage, crews may already be en route. However, if your address isn’t showing up, or the outage is limited to your home, it’s still important to file a report. This helps utilities identify smaller, isolated issues like blown fuses, damaged transformers, or downed service lines.

Find your location on the outage map by entering your address in the search bar or zooming in on your area. This feature allows you to identify the affected areas and understand the status of your power supply. Many mobile applications for reporting outages feature interactive maps with real-time outage information and estimated restoration times.

Entering your address or selecting your area on the map will show if your location is affected by the outage. This tool provides a clear visual representation of the affected areas, helping you stay informed.

Staying informed during a power outage is key to safety and planning. Most utility companies update their outage maps every 5–10 minutes, providing near real-time information on affected areas and restoration efforts.

Here’s what to look for:

• Number of customers affected: Helps you gauge the scale of the outage
• Status of repairs: Provides insight into whether crews are on-site or awaiting resources
• Estimated restoration times: Gives you a timeline for when power may return

Being informed helps you make practical decisions, such as limiting appliance use or conserving backup power. Keep in mind that restoration crews often prioritize critical infrastructure and high-density areas first, so updates can also indicate the sequence of service restoration.

Texas residents remember how Winter Storm Uri in 2021 left millions without power for days. Real-time outage maps became literal lifelines, guiding people toward warming centers and services. The event spurred upgrades in mapping accuracy and user communication.

Downed power lines are very dangerous and should be reported. Even if there are no visible sparks or sounds, the lines can still be energized.

If you encounter a downed power line, do not approach it. It is important to maintain a safe distance at all times.

Recommended safe distances:

• 30 feet from distribution lines (commonly found along streets and neighborhoods)
• 100 feet from transmission lines (large high-voltage lines often found on towers)

To report a downed power line call 911 to alert local authorities. Provide precise location details, including street names, nearby landmarks, and any visible hazards. If possible, keep others away from the area until crews arrive.

Online tools provide a quick and efficient way to report power outages. Many utility companies offer online platforms where users can report outages and directly communicate with utility companies.

Using the online outage reporting portal generally requires details like your address and the nature of the outage. Many utilities have dedicated outage reporting portals on their websites where users can submit reports by filling out a simple form.

These portals guide users through the reporting process step-by-step. Entering account information and outage details allows for quick and efficient reporting, ensuring utility companies are informed and can respond accordingly.

Mobile applications from utility companies enable users to report outages and check their status directly from their smartphones. These mobile apps make reporting power outages straightforward and efficient with just a few taps.

Users can also use these apps to get real-time updates on the status of reported outages. Mobile apps for outage reporting keep users informed and ensure their reports are communicated effectively to utility companies.

Standard messaging rates may apply when reporting outages via text stop, depending on the user’s mobile plan. Be aware that standard text messaging rates may apply when reporting outages via SMS, depending on your mobile service plan.

Reporting outages via text may incur standard message and data rates, based on your mobile carrier plan. These costs can vary, so it’s important to consider them when choosing to report outages via text.

 
  
  
 
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Staying informed during a power outage is essential for safety, planning, and peace of mind. Knowing the status of the outage and estimated restoration times helps you make smart decisions while waiting for power to return.

Because Texas operates the only major state-scale grid largely disconnected from the rest of the country, ERCOT often issues emergency conservation appeals via social media and app alerts—making these channels especially useful when outage tools overload.

Utility companies often share updates on official social media accounts, providing real-time information. You can check posts for updates on restoration efforts and safety notices, or use direct messaging to report issues, which can receive faster responses than public posts.

Many Texans follow ERCOT’s official channels alongside their local utility accounts to stay informed about both neighborhood-level outages and statewide grid conditions. During high-demand periods, ERCOT sometimes issues public conservation appeals through these channels, which can help prevent rolling blackouts.

Social media is a fast and accessible way to stay connected when traditional channels may be slow or overloaded.

Many utilities offer email or text alerts to keep you informed during outages.

Simply enroll through your utility’s outage portal or mobile app to receive real-time updates on outage status and estimated restoration times. These alerts help you prepare in advance for power return or extended outages.

Power outages can happen unexpectedly, so being prepared in advance can make a significant difference in safety and comfort. Taking proactive steps ensures you’re ready for both short-term disruptions and extended outages.

Whether it’s a winter storm in Massachusetts or a heat wave in Texas, outages can happen anywhere at any time.

Having a well-stocked emergency kit is essential. Your kit should include:

• Water
• Non-perishable food
• First aid kit
• Flashlights and spare batteries
• Entertainment items like books, games, or other activities to stay occupied during extended outages.

Preparing a kit in advance helps you stay safe, comfortable, and calm, even when power is out for hours or days.

Having backup power sources can reduce disruption and protect essential appliances.

Home generators provide continuous power during outages if connected to fuel sources like natural gas or propane. Always follow safety precautions to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Battery backups are quiet, eco-friendly alternatives that can power critical devices like refrigerators, medical equipment, and lights.

Regular maintenance and checks ensure these systems function when you need them most.

In addition to kits and backups, consider these preparations:

• Monitor weather and utility alerts: stay informed about upcoming storms or maintenance that could cause outages.
• Have a plan for family and pets: know where to go and what to do during extended power interruptions.
• Secure essential devices: keep phones, laptops, and medical devices charged or backed up with portable batteries.

Effectively reporting power outages and staying informed can make a major difference in how you navigate these disruptions. By using outage maps, online tools, and alternative reporting methods, you ensure utility companies are aware of issues and can respond promptly.

Preparing for outages with emergency kits and backup power options enhances your safety, comfort, and peace of mind. Staying proactive and informed not only helps you weather the immediate impact but also empowers you to handle future outages with confidence.