MLGW prepares for the worst

Customers should expect outages

Memphis Light, Gas and Water is preparing for Winter Storm Fern, which has the potential to be as impactful as the 1994 ice storm that brought our area to a stand-still. The forecast calls for a mix of snow, freezing rain, and sleet. While the forecasts will get more refined as the storm gets closer, there is greater than a 50% chance for accumulation of more than ½" of ice, meaning widespread power outages, fallen trees, and impassable roads.

Impact:

1. Residents should expect power outages because of ice accumulation on trees and power lines and be prepared to be without power for several days.

2. Disruption to water systems is possible. Households should be prepared for loss of water flow by securing several gallons of drinking water for each family member before the storm arrives. Also, either a tub, deep sink, or large buckets/trash cans should be filled with water that can be used for flushing toilets.

3. MLGW has taken measures to respond with 95 overhead electric crews and 80 tree trimming crews.

4. We will work 24/7 until everyone is restored.

General support operations for residents (such as water distribution if that becomes necessary) will be coordinated through the various offices of emergency management in each municipality, in coordination with the Shelby County Emergency Management Agency (EMA).

Customers should prepare.

MLGW asks that customers prepare their homes and businesses for the extreme cold by protecting water pipes and checking on automated sprinkler systems. Water pipes can burst anytime temperatures are below freezing. A burst water pipe or water heater is considered to be an emergency situation and could pose a danger of flooding. Customers can call 528-4465 to have water turned off. However, depending on demand, it could take some time for crews to respond.

Customers are asked to have an emergency plan and take precautions to prevent pipes from bursting at their homes and businesses. Here are a few tips:

MLGW's general winter tips can be found here: mlgw.com/wintertips.

MLGW has an Outage Center on mlgw.com which includes information on reporting and tracking outages as well as a preparedness guide: mlgw.com/StormPrep

Follow MLGW on social media for outage updates: X @mlgw, Instagram @mlgwofficia

Memphis Light, Gas and Water is the largest three-service public power utility in the nation, serving the residents of Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee since 1939. MLGW consistently provides customers with rates that are amongst the lowest in the nation and stewards a water supply from artesian wells that is minimally treated. Actively engaged in promoting the prosperity of Memphis and Shelby County, MLGW supports the seven local chambers in its service area and makes doing business with local, minority- and women-owned business a priority. Deeply rooted in the community, its employees generously donate time and money in support of bettering the Greater Memphis area.