DALLAS, October 21, 2019 – Less than 24 hours after severe storms and multiple tornadoes swept through its service territory, Oncor has restored power to more than 30,000 customers. Currently, 65,000 customers remain without power, with a large majority of outages – 46,000 – in Dallas and surrounding cities.

While assessment and restoration efforts are ongoing, Oncor is using specialty equipment, such as helicopters, drones and aerial lifts, to help identify and remove large amounts of debris caught on transmission and distribution lines. (See video above or click here.)

Oncor recognizes the challenges customers face without power, especially after such devastating storms. The Company remains focused on restoring power as quickly and safely as possible and thanks customers for their continued patience and vigilance.

In many areas, Oncor is rebuilding entire systems – a complex and lengthy process that can involve installing new utility poles, transformers and power lines before energizing a neighborhood.

Oncor personnel will continue to work around the clock to rebuild and restore service to customers. Approximately 4,000 Oncor personnel and mutual assistance personnel from utility partners across Texas and neighboring states are expected to join restoration efforts by Tuesday.

Please keep these safety tips in mind during and immediately following severe storms:

• If you see a downed power line, leave the area and call 9-1-1. In addition to the downed line potentially being electrified, anything touching the power line, such as a tree branch, could also be electrified. Keep pets, children and others away from the area.
• Do not attempt to remove debris and tree limbs from areas near power lines. The debris may be concealing a live wire or downed power line.
• Use caution when traveling on the roadways, especially in areas with heavy debris and streetlights without power.
• If you are experiencing an emergency event, call 911 immediately. 

Customers can report outages by calling 888-313-4747, texting OUT to 66267, or by downloading the MyOncor app.

###