Tennessee’s Power Grid and the Impact of Disasters
Tennessee is no stranger to natural disasters. From severe storms and tornadoes to wildfires and floods, the Volunteer State has seen it all. And while the state’s power grid is designed to withstand most weather events, even it has its limits.
In recent years, several major storms have caused widespread power outages across Tennessee. In 2011, an EF-5 tornado ripped through the city of Chattanooga, causing over $150 million in damage and leaving nearly 200,000 customers without power. Just two years later, another severe storm caused nearly 500,000 customers to lose power, some for over a week.
While the state’s power grid has been able to bounce back from these events, the same can’t be said for the people who rely on it. For many, losing power means losing access to essential services like heat, water, and medical care. It can also mean losing food and medications that need to be refrigerated.
In a state like Tennessee, where severe weather is a regular occurrence, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of a power outage. Here are a few things you can do to make sure you’re ready:
– Charge your cell phone and other devices in advance.
– Keep a stash of cash on hand, in case ATMs are down.
– Fill up your gas tank in case you need to evacuate.
– Have a plan for how you’ll stay cool or warm if the power goes out.
– Keep a list of emergency phone numbers handy.
– Have a supply of non-perishable food and water.
– Consider investing in a backup generator.
No one likes to think about the possibility of a natural disaster, but being prepared can make all the difference. By taking a few simple steps, you can make sure you’re ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
Sources:
https://www.timesfreepress.com/news/local/story/2011/apr/27/power-outages-continue-chattanooga-are/96739/
https://www.wrcbtv.com/story/25999055/nearly-500000-without-power-in-tennessee/
https://www.ready.gov/outages