WCEC Encourages Winter Weather Preparation

Wharton County Electric Cooperative has been monitoring winter weather forecasts for this weekend and early next week.  Forecasters are calling for freezing temperatures and the possibility of freezing rain. Ice accumulation on power lines can cause power outages, especially when combined with windy conditions.

Icy conditions can be extremely hazardous around powerlines.

When ice accumulates on power lines in strong winds, it can build up on only one side, causing “galloping.” Galloping can damage lines, cause power outages, and even break cross-arms, bringing lines to the ground. When galloping causes the lines to touch, arcing or flashing can occur, and power may flicker or go out. Once galloping starts, there isn’t much that can be done until the winds decrease. If you encounter power lines that are swaying or bucking dangerously or downed lines, stay away, warn others to stay away, and contact us as soon as possible. 

Additionally, ice accumulation can make powerlines heavy, causing them to sag dangerously or snap. Ice on trees around powerlines can also cause the branches to sag into or break off and fall on the lines. 

These situations can be deadly! The best course of action is to steer clear and call for assistance.

WCEC crews will be on standby as this weather system moves through our area. They will be ready for dispatch as soon as it is safe to begin any restoration efforts, if needed.   During an outage, WCEC crews work to restore power to the largest number of people first. After power is restored to the cooperative’s main feeders, our crews then address issues in smaller neighborhoods or at individual homes.  

WCEC is asking all members to prepare for the possibility of power outages throughout this weather event. Tips to keep you and your family safe and warm in case of an outage: 

• Stay inside, and dress warmly. Staying warm is a priority. Dress in several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight warm clothing. Wear hats, mittens, and scarves.
• Close off unneeded rooms to keep the heat in your living areas. Place a draft block at the bottom of doors to minimize cold drafts from entering the house.
• When using an alternative heat source, follow operating instructions, use fire safeguards, and be sure to properly ventilate. Always keep a multipurpose, dry-chemical fire extinguisher nearby, and know how to use it.
• Keep a close eye on the temperature in your home. Infants and people over 65 are often more susceptible to the cold. You may want to stay with friends or relatives or go to a shelter if you cannot keep your home warm.

For more tips on outage preparation and safety, visit our Outage Center. 

In addition to keeping up to date with the weather, WCEC is also monitoring ERCOT predictions for the week. At this time, ERCOT has issued a weather watch, but is predicting adequate generation throughout this weather event; there is no indication that rotating outages will be necessary.   

What is an ERCOT Weather Watch? An ERCOT Weather Watch is an advance notification of forecasted significant weather with higher electrical demand and the potential for lower reserves. Texans should continue to monitor real-time and extended grid conditions at ERCOT.com, by downloading the ERCOT app, or signing up for ERCOT alerts at ERCOT.com/TXANS.

As a reminder to our members, if ERCOT issues an emergency alert calling for rotating outages, we must comply. We will notify our members through social media and our website as quickly as possible.   

To report an outage, call 979-543-6271. During large outages, phone lines can get busy, or wait times may be longer than normal. If necessary, we may implement an automated outage-reporting system. To report an outage through this system, you will need the phone number connected to your account, your account number, or your meter number.

Rest assured that if outages occur, crews will be working to restore power as soon as it is safe to do so. If you are unable to get through to the co-op by calling 979-543-6271, updates from WCEC will also be available here: 

One final reminder, with extreme temperatures comes high power use. Your heater will be working overtime to keep your home warm. If you are concerned about high usage and/or the cost of your next bill, we can help. Our SmartHub portal and app allow members to see their daily power use; our website offers ways to save at MyWCEC.coop/Save; and our CSRs are always ready to share tips at 979-543-6271.  

Stay safe, stay warm. And know that WCEC will be here if you need us. 

• Monitor weather conditions for your location.
• Protect the four P’s: people, pets, pipes, and plants.
• Have a plan to safely stay warm without power.
• Have backup power at the ready for any needed medical equipment.  
• WCEC’s Outage Center
• WCEC’s Facebook Page
• Local Radio: KULP FM 106.7 (AM 1390), KIOX FM 96.1, KULM FM 98.3