Most of Harris County is starting to light back up after a midday power disruption, with utility crews fanned out across the area to finish repairs and steady the grid. Officials say if you are still in the dark, do not assume someone else reported it: contact your utility provider, keep fuel-burning generators outside, and treat every dark traffic signal like a four-way stop until it is working again.
Update from Precinct 4
In a Facebook post Wednesday, Constable Mark Herman said utility crews are still working to restore remaining outages and "keep the power grid stable," and he thanked linemen, first responders and emergency crews for sticking with the job. Herman said outages across the county have "significantly decreased" as repairs move along and urged residents and drivers to keep following official updates and safety guidance.
How to report outages and generator safety
According to CenterPoint Energy, Houston-area customers can report an outage by calling 713-207-2222 and track restoration progress using the company’s outage tools. Precinct 4 reiterated that residents without power should reach out directly to their utility provider rather than calling 911 for non-emergencies. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that portable generators need to be operated outdoors only to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, which is a leading cause of deaths after storms and other power disruptions.
Traffic signals and driving rules
Officials reminded drivers that when a traffic signal is dark or not working, Texas law treats the intersection as an all-way stop. That means every driver must come to a complete stop and then take turns proceeding through to cut down on crash risks. The Texas Transportation Code specifies that a vehicle facing a traffic-control signal that displays no indication must stop as if the intersection had a stop sign. If you encounter downed power lines, stay clear and report them immediately to your utility.
Where to follow for updates
Precinct 4 is asking residents to follow its social channels and download the "C4 Now" mobile app for live alerts, as noted on Facebook. For real-time restoration maps and to report outages, check CenterPoint Energy and continue to follow guidance from local officials.
