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Here's what to do if you lose power during the winter storm

On Jan. 24, 2026, experts at Beltway Heating, Air and Plumbing recommended emergency kits and device charging ahead of possible power outages Saturday, Jan. 24 and Sunday, Jan. 25.
The storm, which began in Texas and Oklahoma on Jan. 23, brought sleet and snow eastward as forecasters warned of "catastrophic" ice accumulation into the Ohio Valley, Mid-Atlantic and New England.
Experts stressed generator safety, noting portable generators must be used outdoors per manufacturers' guidelines and heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords prevent electrocution; licensed electricians should install transfer switches.
The Red Cross recommends discarding refrigerated food above 40 degrees after two hours and notes full freezers can stay safe up to 48 hours; experts advise dripping faucets and disconnecting hoses, costing around $10 to prevent pipe bursts.
After power returns, officials urge reporting downed lines to local officials and using battery-powered flashlights; Lowe's tips recommend leaving one light plugged in to spot power restoration, and motorists should remain inside cars near live lines unless fire threatens safety.

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