CORPUS CHRISTI (July 29, 2011) – The AEP Texas Emergency Management Organization is continuing to monitor Tropical Storm Don and plan for its potential impacts within the company’s service area in south Texas.

Even though the storm is not expected to gain hurricane strength, the effects of high winds and heavy rains could still disrupt power along the lower Texas Gulf Coast.

AEP Texas during the last few days has been preparing for the possibility that the storm might strike its service area that extends from Port Isabel to Matagorda, Texas. These efforts included reviewing the company’s hurricane preparedness plan and determining what resources are needed to restore power in a safe and timely manner.

The company’s storm coordinator has arranged for crews from throughout AEP Texas as well as contract crews and neighboring utilities to provide assistance if its electric system sustains extensive damage.

To report a fallen power line or utility pole, call 1-866-223-8508. All power lines should be considered energized and dangerous. Because of the likelihood that the storm will cause many lines to fall, customers are asked to keep their children and pets inside during and after the storm.

“We hope that the storm will have minimal effects to our service area,” said David Hooper, AEP Texas vice president of electric distribution. “However, we are monitoring the storm closely to ensure that we will be ready if it storm impacts us."

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