It’s the first — and potentially only — snowfall of the season in several parts of Texas.
While this could be the most significant snowfall of the winter, colder months lie ahead, bringing the likelihood of icy roads and making it essential to prepare for potential power outages and other challenges.
Although the Electric Reliability Council of Texas has reassured residents that there’s sufficient power supply, many Texans remain cautious in the wake of the devastating statewide power outage caused by Winter Storm Uri in 2021, which claimed more than 240 lives.
Unlike Uri, however, Winter Storm Cora is significantly less widespread, affecting only parts of the state rather than all 252 Texas counties.
In case there is a power outage, we’re here to help.
More: Should you drip or stream faucets during freeze warnings? What to know if you live in Texas
What you need during a power outage
When temperatures drop and the power goes out, staying warm and safe becomes a top priority. Without electricity, heating systems can fail, leaving you vulnerable to the cold. In these situations, it’s essential to be prepared.
Here are a few things that should help in case of a power outage.
(Remember that even if you’re cold, never run your car for warmth in an enclosed space, like a garage, as it poses a serious risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. If you need to use your car as a heat source, always ensure it’s in a well-ventilated area.)
1. Propane burner
Camping supplies can be invaluable during a power outage. A propane burner, for example, can serve as a reliable cooking tool when electricity is unavailable, though some models require a gas hook-up to function. Additionally, indoor propane heaters can provide warmth safely if used responsibly. Ensure proper ventilation and install at least two carbon monoxide detectors in your home to minimize risks.2. Sleeping Bag or Emergency Blanket
Losing power during the winter often means losing heat quickly, so it’s essential to have extra blankets and sheets on hand to layer for warmth. Emergency blankets, which are affordable and widely available online or at outdoor stores, are particularly important because they are designed to retain up to 90% of your body heat, making them a critical tool in staying warm during extreme cold.
More: Tips on how to defrost your windshield this winter if you live in Texas
3. Flashlight
Make sure you’re stocked up with at least one flashlight and enough batteries to last a few nights.
4. Battery pack or power bank
A cordless battery pack or power bank can be used to charge your battery-powered essentials when the lights go out, meaning you’ll never have to be without your phone or means of communication.
5. Generator
If you live in an area prone to blackouts during harsh winter conditions, it may be worth picking up a full generator that can keep your essentials powered when the electricity goes out.
6. Non-perishable foods
It’s always smart to stock your pantry with non-perishable food items during the winter. You can stock up a few cans at a time during your weekly grocery run, or you can opt for a delivery service that will bring them straight to you.
7. Packaged water
Always keep extra water on hand for emergencies, whether it’s a pack of bottles, gallon containers, or larger jugs. In case your water supply is disrupted, having clean drinking water for you and your family is essential. Additionally, during severe weather, consider filling your bathtub with water to use for non-drinking purposes, such as flushing toilets or cleaning.
8. Candles
Use flashlights only when necessary, such as for repairs or searching for something specific to conserve their batteries. For general lighting, candles can provide sufficient illumination. However, be cautious not to place too many candles close together, as this can create a fire hazard. Always position them safely and away from flammable materials.
Check for power outages in Texas
There are no significant power outages in Texas as of Thursday morning. But you can track outages on this map here.
This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas winter storm 2025: How to arm your home against power outages