A major winter storm is forecast to bring snow, ice, freezing rain, and bitter cold across large parts of the country over the coming days. This system is expected to impact Texas and several states served by PJM Interconnection, including Pennsylvania, Delaware, Ohio, and Illinois. Travel disruptions, hazardous road conditions, and localized power outages are possible as the storm moves east.
Below is what grid operators are saying about readiness, along with clear steps customers can take to prepare and stay safe.
What ERCOT Is Saying in Texas
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) reports that it expects to have sufficient electricity generation available to meet demand during the storm. ERCOT has stated that power plants and grid operations have undergone winter readiness reviews, and operators are closely monitoring weather conditions and system demand in real time.
Since previous extreme winter events, ERCOT and Texas utilities have implemented stronger winterization requirements, improved coordination with generators, and additional operational tools designed to reduce the risk of widespread outages.
That said, ERCOT has also noted that localized outages are still possible, particularly if ice or falling tree limbs damage power lines or neighborhood equipment. These types of outages are handled by local utilities rather than the grid operator itself.
What PJM Is Saying for PA, DE, OH, and IL
For customers in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Ohio, and Illinois, the regional grid operator is PJM Interconnection, which manages the electric transmission system across much of the Mid Atlantic and Midwest.
PJM has shared that it expects to have adequate power supplies available to serve forecasted winter demand under expected conditions. The grid operator has winter preparation guidelines in place for generators and transmission owners, including cold weather readiness checks and coordination with fuel suppliers.
PJM has also acknowledged that cold weather events can strain the system, especially if natural gas supplies tighten or if multiple generators experience outages at the same time. While overall grid reliability is expected, weather related outages at the local level remain possible, particularly during ice storms or periods of heavy snow and wind.
How to Prepare Before the Storm Arrives
Build a basic emergency kit
- Water for several days for each person in your home
- Nonperishable food that does not require cooking
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Portable phone chargers or battery packs
Protect your home
- Wrap exposed pipes and allow faucets to drip during hard freezes
- Seal drafty windows and doors to help keep heat inside
- Keep extra blankets and warm clothing easily accessible
Plan ahead
- Fully charge phones and essential devices
- Refill prescriptions and medical supplies if possible
- Make sure pets have food, water, and a warm place indoors
What to Do If You Lose Power
Put safety first
- Use flashlights instead of candles
- Never use grills, camp stoves, or gas ovens indoors for heat
- If you have a generator, run it outdoors and far from windows or doors
Report the outage
- Contact your local utility company, not NextVolt Energy, ERCOT or PJM, to report the outage and receive restoration updates
- Call 911 only for emergencies, such as downed power lines or immediate safety hazards
Protect food and water
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible
- Discard perishable food if temperatures rise above safe levels for extended periods
Know local resources
- Many communities open warming centers during extended outages
- Dial 211 or check local government sites for shelter information
Travel and Cold Weather Tips
- Avoid travel during snow or ice whenever possible
- Roads can become slick quickly and visibility may drop fast
- If travel is necessary, tell someone your route and expected arrival time
What This Means for NextVolt Customers
Both ERCOT and PJM report that they are prepared for the upcoming winter weather, with sufficient power resources expected under forecast conditions. While grid wide failures are not anticipated, severe winter storms can still cause local outages, especially where ice and wind damage equipment.
Preparing your home, knowing who to call, and staying informed will help you weather the storm safely, no matter where you live.