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AEP Texas said in a news release sent just after 10:30 a.m. Sunday that 400 line workers are restoring service to 38,500 customers in the Rio Grande Valley who are still without power as of 9:30 a.m.
“At the peak of the storm at 2 a.m. on Saturday, over 155,000 customers were left without power,” the release stated.
The outages came with a powerful storm that ripped through the Valley with winds reaching more than 70 mph.
Those winds caused significant damage and many traffic hazards, with signals being blown down at intersections, downed power lines and debris being scattered all over roadways.
The lightning and heavy rain also impacted 35 substations and slammed numerous utility poles and transmission structures to the ground.
Here are AEP Texas’ projections on power restorations:
>> The Edinburg, Mission and Pharr areas are estimated for restoration at 10 p.m. Sunday.
>> The McAllen area is estimated for restoration at noon on Monday.
>> The Port Isabel area is estimated for restoration at 4 p.m. on Sunday.
“Please remember that these are PROJECTIONS that could change as restoration efforts continue,” the release stated.
AEP Texas is also reminding residents that crews are working to address any downed power lines.
“Please consider any downed power lines to be energized and dangerous,” the release stated. “Please stay at least 10 feet away from any downed power lines or electrical equipment and ensure that children and pets also stay away.”
The company is also asking residents to not interrupt or approach crews who are working to restore power to all homes or facilities.
“Your support and patience during this restoration effort is deeply appreciated,” the release stated. “Thank you. Crews are working to restore power as quickly as safely possible. Our crews in the field are focused on the restoration of service.”
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