As San Antonio braces for a cold front this weekend, the city’s primary utility has a clear message for its residents: CPS Energy Prepared for Winter Weather, Ready to Serve Customers. On January 22, 2026, the utility confirmed that its infrastructure is weatherized, energy resources are secured, and emergency crews are on high alert.
In South Texas, we know that winter can be unpredictable. While the utility handles the grid, it’s up to us to handle our homes. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the upcoming weather and how you can stay safe and warm.
1. How the Grid Stays Warm: CPS Energy’s Readiness
CPS Energy has spent months preparing for this weekend’s drop in temperature. Their strategy is built on three main pillars:
- Weatherized Facilities: From power plants to substations, critical infrastructure has been insulated and protected against freezing temperatures.
- System Maintenance: Crews have completed a rigorous schedule of inspections and preventative maintenance to ensure the lines can handle the increased load.
- Strategic Staging: Repair crews and energy reserves are already in place, ready to respond the moment an outage is detected.
2. Winterizing Your Home: A Quick Checklist
Before the freeze hits, take these proactive steps to protect your property and lower your energy bill:
External Protection
- Insulate Pipes: Use foam covers or rags to wrap outdoor faucets and exposed piping.
- Seal the Gaps: Check for drafts around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or even rolled-up towels to keep the cold air out.
- The 3-P Rule: Remember to protect People, Pets, and Plants.
Internal Efficiency
- Thermostat Settings: Set your thermostat to a consistent, moderate temperature (like 68°F) to avoid overworking your heating system.
- Reverse Your Fans: Running ceiling fans clockwise at a low speed helps push warm air down from the ceiling.
3. Staying Safe During an Outage
If the weather causes localized outages—often due to ice accumulation or falling tree limbs—safety becomes the top priority.
Generator Safety
If you use a generator, never run it inside your home or garage. Carbon monoxide is odorless and deadly. Always keep generators outdoors, at least 20 feet away from windows and doors.
Fallen Power Lines
Ice-heavy branches are a major threat to power lines. If you see a downed line, stay at least 35 feet away and report it immediately by calling 210-353-HELP (4357).
4. Stay Connected and Informed
Information is your best defense during a winter storm. CPS Energy provides several ways to stay updated:
- Energy Alerts: Sign up for real-time text or email updates at cpsenergy.com/alerts.
- Outage Map: Track restoration progress in real-time at cpsenergy.com/outage.
- Emergency Contact: Keep the number 210-353-2222 handy for updating your contact information or asking questions.
Final Thoughts: Looking Out for the Community
Winter weather is always easier to handle when we work together. Take a moment to check on elderly neighbors or those who might need extra help preparing their homes. By following these steps and staying informed through official CPS Energy channels, we can ensure a safe weekend for all of San Antonio.