With inclement weather bearing down on Texas, officials at the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) have issued a warning to residents about a spate of fake text messages regarding the state's power grid condition. According to KHOU 11, the council clarified that they never communicate grid updates through texts. Texans are encouraged to be wary of this misinformation and to refer only to official sources for authentic updates on grid conditions.
ERCOT advises residents to get information only from its website, the Texas Advisory and Notification System, verified social media accounts, or its mobile app. FOX 26 Houston reported that fake texts from entities impersonating ERCOT could mislead residents, especially as severe winter weather over the weekend and into Monday may increase reliance on power and information.
Within Harris County and the surrounding areas, including the Houston metropolitan and coastal regions, a Winter Storm Warning has been issued. An Extreme Cold Warning is anticipated, with the most frigid conditions expected on Monday morning. The agency's statement, as obtained by KHOU 11, stresses that any text messages purporting to provide grid updates should be considered counterfeit and entirely unaffiliated with ERCOT.
Residents should stay informed as the weather develops. KHOU 11 has issued a Weather Impact Alert for the weekend, with updates available via the KHOU 11 mobile app and KHOU 11+. FOX 26 Houston also notes that the FOX LOCAL app provides livestreams, news, and weather alerts. Using official sources is crucial for accurate information during severe weather.
