Extreme cold temperatures and the potential for ice, sleet and snow are expected to move through parts of the Entergy Arkansas service area beginning Friday, prompting the utility to prepare for possible impacts and urge customers to make plans now.
Forecasts indicate much of Entergy Arkansas’ service territory is more likely to experience ice accumulation rather than heavy snowfall, followed by several days of below-freezing temperatures. Entergy officials say the company is actively monitoring weather conditions and has taken steps to prepare its system for the event.
“Ice poses a greater threat to power infrastructure than snow because it clings and builds, adding tremendous weight to power lines, poles and tree limbs — especially when temperatures remain extremely cold,” Entergy Arkansas said in a statement.
According to the utility:
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One-eighth inch of ice can coat power lines and small limbs, causing branches to break and fall onto lines.
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One-quarter inch of ice can cause younger evergreen trees to lean into distribution lines, increasing outages.
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One-half inch of ice on power lines can add up to 500 pounds of extra weight, significantly increasing the risk of damage.
Officials also warned that the period immediately after a storm can be especially dangerous. Extreme cold can make wood and metal brittle, and shifting or falling ice may bring down limbs or lines. Customers are urged to stay clear of falling debris and always keep a safe distance from power lines and work crews.
Preparations Underway
To reduce the risk of outages and support restoration efforts, Entergy Arkansas said it has:
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Inspected substations, transmission lines and other critical infrastructure.
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Insulated power plant equipment and piping where needed.
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Trimmed vegetation near power lines to help reduce tree-related outages.
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Reviewed emergency response plans and positioned storm resources in key locations.
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Worked with local officials to identify and support warming centers in impacted areas.
These efforts, the company said, are part of its year-round reliability work to keep the electric system resilient.
What Customers Should Expect
If outages occur, restoration could take additional time due to hazardous conditions and increased demand on the system. Winter weather may also limit safe access for crews and require extra time to complete repairs.
Customers are urged to take precautions now and not impede work zones if outages happen, for their own safety and the safety of Entergy crews.
Updates will be provided throughout the weather event. Customers can get the most up-to-date outage information by visiting Entergy’s View Outage map, using the Entergy mobile app, or signing up for text alerts.
How to Prepare
Entergy Arkansas encourages customers to prepare now for winter weather. Tips include:
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Make a plan and assemble an emergency kit.
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Winterize your home inside and out.
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Keep a mobile phone charged as a lifeline during emergencies.
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Download the Entergy app and know how to report an outage.
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Learn how to stay safe after the storm.
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Follow generator safety guidelines.
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Practice extreme cold safety tips for both indoor and outdoor conditions.
