CenterPoint Energy Prepares for Tropical Storm Rafael's Impact
CenterPoint Energy is closely monitoring the progress of Tropical Storm Rafael, enhancing its readiness to address and minimize the potential impacts of the storm. The company is committed to ensuring the safety of its electric and natural gas customers through timely communication and coordinated efforts with emergency services.
Proactive Measures and Safety Communication
The company has proactively reached out to more than 2.25 million natural gas customers within its multi-state service area. These customers are advised to take necessary safety precautions as the storm approaches. CenterPoint is dedicated to keeping its customers informed about safety measures, particularly as the storm's path continues to evolve.
Collaboration with Emergency Partners
In addition to customer outreach, CenterPoint Energy is collaborating closely with local agencies and emergency management partners. This cooperation aims to enhance preparedness and ensure a swift response in the event of service disruptions caused by the weather. Richard Leger, CenterPoint's Senior Vice President of Gas Business, emphasized the importance of joint efforts to restore services safely and efficiently.
Readiness to Restore Services
CenterPoint Energy has deployed an extensive strategy to ensure its workforce and resources are ready for rapid deployment across affected areas. As the storm's trajectory becomes clearer, the focus remains on preparation for potential damage to both electric and natural gas services. The utility company aims to restore services as quickly as possible for customers affected by Tropical Storm Rafael.
Practical Safety Tips for Customers
To help ensure safety, CenterPoint has shared essential safety tips for natural gas customers. Residents are advised against shutting off natural gas services at the meter, as it could lead to water infiltration in the lines should flooding occur. Instead, customers should turn off natural gas at individual appliances if necessary.
Electric Service Precautions
While the Greater Houston area is not currently anticipated to face severe impacts from Tropical Storm Rafael, it is crucial for electric customers to remain vigilant. CenterPoint encourages them to enroll in the Power Alert Service®, which offers personalized notifications about outages and restoration efforts through calls, texts, or emails. They can also utilize the company's upgraded Outage Tracker for real-time updates on service disruptions.
Planning for Safety During the Storm
CenterPoint is calling on all customers to develop a safety plan in advance of Tropical Storm Rafael. Essential safety guidelines can be found on their website, assisting individuals in preparing for potential flooding and other storm-related issues. By taking proactive steps, customers can better protect themselves and their loved ones.
About CenterPoint Energy
CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is the only investor-owned electric and gas utility based in Texas. Servicing over 7 million metered customers across Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio, and Texas, the company has a long-standing history of over 150 years in energy delivery. With a workforce of approximately 9,000 employees, CenterPoint continues to innovate within the industry by prioritizing safety and reliability in energy delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CenterPoint Energy doing in preparation for the storm?
CenterPoint Energy is monitoring Tropical Storm Rafael closely and has communicated with customers to ensure they take the necessary safety precautions while also coordinating with emergency partners.
How many customers are affected?
More than 2.25 million natural gas customers across the multi-state region are encouraged to take proactive safety measures in light of the storm.
What should natural gas customers avoid doing before the storm?
Customers should not turn off natural gas services at the meter, as it may allow flooding to infiltrate the lines. Instead, they can turn off gas at individual appliances if needed.
Are there updates available for electric service disruptions?
Yes, CenterPoint Energy customers can enroll in the Power Alert Service® to receive real-time updates on outages and restoration times.
Where can customers find more safety tips?
Customers can visit CenterPoint’s official website for storm-related safety tips and preparation resources to stay safe during Tropical Storm Rafael.
