Texas Hill Country Outage Guide
Real-time outage tracking, storm preparation checklists, and resources for Horseshoe Bay and the Highland Lakes region.
Bookmark this page before severe weather hits.
Utility Outage Trackers
Check the status of power outages in your area directly from your utility provider.
Tip: Outage maps may lag during widespread events. Check again every 15–30 minutes.
Storm Preparation Center
Everything you should do before, during, and after a major storm or extended outage.
Backup Power
- Confirm your generator has been serviced recently
- Run a short test/exercise cycle
- Verify adequate fuel supply (3–7 days recommended)
- Know which circuits are "must-run"
Emergency Supplies
- Water and non-perishable food for several days
- Flashlights or headlamps with extra batteries
- First aid supplies and essential medications
- Sanitation items (wipes, trash bags, sanitizer)
Family Plan
- NOAA weather radio (battery or hand-crank)
- Fully charged phones and power banks
- Out-of-area contact for family check-ins
- Pet supplies and evacuation plan if needed
Generator Readiness for Severe Weather
Ensure your backup power system performs when you need it most.
Before the Storm
Check Fluids & Battery
Confirm oil levels, clean filters, and ensure the starting battery is fully charged and corrosion-free.
Run a Test Cycle
Manually run the generator for 5–10 minutes to ensure it starts and runs smoothly under no load.
Verify Fuel Supply
Check propane tank levels or diesel reserves. Ensure delivery trucks can access your property.
Identify Essential Circuits
Know which high-draw appliances (AC, electric oven) to avoid using simultaneously to prevent overload.
During & After Outage
Outdoor Operation Only
Never run portable generators in garages or enclosed spaces. Keep them 20ft away from doors and windows.
Monitor Fuel Usage
Check fuel levels daily during extended outages. Conserve power if fuel resupply is uncertain.
Manage Load
If the generator shuts down due to overload, turn off large appliances before restarting.
Power Restoration
When utility power returns, expect brief surges or flickers before the transfer switch reverts to grid power.
Critical Safety Warning
Carbon Monoxide Kills: Never run a generator inside your home, garage, or basement. Ensure you have working, battery-operated CO detectors on every level of your home.
Extended Outage Safety Tips
How to stay safe and minimize loss when the power is out for days.
Food Safety
- • Refrigerators keep food safe ~4 hours without power
- • Full freezers ~48 hours (keep doors closed)
- • When in doubt, throw it out
- • Keep coolers and ice ready before the storm
Home Preparation
- • Secure outdoor furniture and loose items
- • Trim weak branches when safe to do so
- • Move valuables higher in flood-prone areas
- • Take photos for insurance documentation
After the Storm
- • Stay clear of downed power lines
- • Continue generator safety practices
- • Document damage before cleanup
- • Schedule service if generator ran continuously
Emergency Contact Dashboard
Save these numbers to your phone before a storm.
Downloadable Resources
Storm Prep Guide
Complete printable PDF guide for severe weather preparation.
Generator Checklist
Maintenance and readiness checklist for your generator.
Contact Worksheet
Fillable form for your family's contacts.