A potent storm system swept across the South this weekend, producing damaging winds and multiple tornadoes from Texas through Mississippi. Homes were damaged in the Houston area and across parts of the Deep South, and tens of thousands of customers lost power as the squall line raced east.

Tornado Season Never Really Ends

Many homeowners associate tornadoes with spring, but the Gulf South’s secondary severe weather season runs through the cool months, when strong storm systems tap warm, humid air off the Gulf. These late-December storms are a reminder that grid-threatening weather is a year-round risk in the South.

Preparing for Possible Impacts

• Inspect your standby generator and ensure it is ready to activate automatically if power is lost.
• Run a test cycle to confirm your system starts and transfers power properly.
• Plan for fuel supply and make sure natural gas or propane systems are fully connected and serviced.
• Consider an upgrade. Whole-home backup solutions from Generac and Kohler deliver seamless power protection during prolonged outages.

Stay Informed

Keep multiple ways to receive warnings, including a weather radio and wireless emergency alerts, especially for storms that strike overnight. A new year of weather is days away. Make preparedness a resolution.