More than 7,100 Austin Energy customers were left in the dark Saturday afternoon after a fast-moving cold front tore through Central Texas, kicking up gusty winds and heavy rain that knocked down power lines across parts of the city. The largest single outage hit North Austin near Q2 Stadium, where roughly 3,749 customers lost service. Utility crews were sent to multiple trouble spots, with restoration times varying by neighborhood, and city officials urged residents to steer clear of downed lines and follow utility guidance while repairs continue.
Outage map shows clusters around North Austin
According to the Austin Energy outage map, about 7,100 customers were affected as of 1:49 p.m., and crews had been assigned to all active outages. As reported by MySA, the largest outage, centered between Metric and Lamar boulevards near Q2 Stadium, impacted roughly 3,749 customers and carried an estimated restoration time of 4:08 p.m. The outages were scattered across the greater Austin service area, affecting neighborhoods in both Travis and Williamson counties. Utility officials cautioned that those restoration estimates are not set in stone and can shift quickly as crews get a closer look at the damage.
Storms and wind likely to blame
The National Weather Service warned that a line of strong to severe storms would move along the I-35 corridor Saturday, with damaging straight-line winds and isolated hail possible, conditions that often topple trees, damage equipment, and trigger outages. As outlined by the National Weather Service, the main window for storms across the Hill Country and the central I-35 corridor was the afternoon hours, which raised the odds of service interruptions just as many residents were home for the weekend. Meteorologists urged people to stay weather-aware, keep an eye on rapidly changing conditions, and avoid outdoor hazards while the storms moved through.
How to check outages and stay safe
Customers can track outages and see estimated restoration times on the Austin Energy outage map, or report an outage by texting OUT to 287846 or calling 512-322-9100, according to the city's outage guidance. Austin Energy advises residents to stay at least 35 feet away from any downed power line and to call 512-322-9100 to report hazards. For medical or life-safety emergencies, officials say to call 911. Signing up for outage alerts can send updates straight to your phone as crews work their way through the repair list.
Storm outages underscore recurring vulnerability
Weather-driven outages are nothing new in Austin. Severe storms last spring left tens of thousands without power and showed how quickly falling trees and high winds can strain the system, according to reporting by the Express-News. For now, crews remain on duty as the current round of storms plays out, and restoration estimates are being updated on the outage map as work continues.
