In the midst of winter, utilities need to be prepared for frigid temperatures and potential snowstorms that could impact their ability to serve their customers. Last year, Winter Storm Uri devastated Texas and areas of some surrounding states and led to water, electricity, and other critical service outages and other disruptions for many days. Many organizations have investigated where issues arose and have been busy implementing solutions to bolster resilience and ensure business continuity in multiple contingencies, including Austin Water.

WaterISAC previously reported on Austin Water’s after-action report (AAR) on Winter Storm Uri and the steps it was implementing to ensure operational resilience. In addition to the enhancements previously discussed, such as insulating piping and procuring extra winter weather supplies, Austin Water is implementing other noteworthy resilience initiatives. The utility is working to increase its water capacity by adding a new 2-million-gallon water storage tank. For potential emergency shutdowns, it has signed contracts with bottled water distributors and acquired two potable water trucks. Austin Water is also adding three full-time employees to its emergency management team.

In terms of power, Austin Water is working to enhance its operational resilience in the event of a service disruption. The utility is working on building electrical substations at each of its facilities and is adding more generators at priority wastewater lift stations. Finally, Austin Water is improving its public outreach. The utility’s public information office created a real-time service outage map to allow customers to monitor potential issues in their area. Also, the utility has created a boil-water instructional video for customers. Read more at the Austin Monitor or access the original AAR.