Entergy Texas conducts full-scale storm drill ahead of 2026 hurricane season

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- Calling the Gulf Coast home means being ready for severe weather every day of the year. During Hurricane Preparedness Week, observed May 3-9, Entergy Texas is reinforcing its commitment to year-round storm readiness and encouraging customers to take steps to protect themselves, their families and their homes ahead of hurricane season.

Entergy Texas recently conducted its annual storm drill, a hands-on exercise that tests the company’s storm response planning, communication channels, logistics and collaboration with community leaders under realistic conditions. Although the drill lasts only one day, the work behind it reflects ongoing preparation. Teams train, coordinate and invest in system resilience year-round to ensure quick and safe restoration whenever storms move through Southeast Texas.

“Our customers and communities count on us to be ready long before a storm ever forms,” said Frank Shannon, vice president of reliability for Entergy Texas. “This annual drill allows us to pressure‑test our decision-making, strengthen coordination with our community partners, and make sure we are prepared to restore service as efficiently and safely as possible.”

More than 60 Entergy employees participated in the exercise, representing operations, customer service, logistics, communications and additional storm support roles. Local and state emergency management agencies, government officials and industry partners also joined the training to reflect the broad coordination required during real severe weather events.

“Storm response is an all‑hands‑on‑deck effort,” said Stuart Barrett, vice president of customer service. “Training alongside first responders and public officials helps us stay aligned on communication and customer support well before hurricane season begins.”

The drill included simulated storm scenarios, including a mock staging site hosted by Bolton Holdings. Entergy’s Mobile Command Center — equipped with satellite communications, workstations and high‑speed internet to coordinate real‑time restoration planning — was also utilized during the training.

As part of its readiness strategy, Entergy Texas is also focused on strengthening the Southeast Texas power grid and keeping energy costs affordable. Grid investments before storms keep customer costs as low as possible while improving reliability. We’re preparing for storms by building a stronger, more resilient grid, so customers experience fewer outages, faster restoration and lower storm related costs.

Entergy recently received its 51st Emergency Response Award from Edison Electric Institute for performance during severe weather, reflecting decades of industry leadership and expertise in restoration. The honor reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to reliability and community partnership.

All of these efforts, from year-round planning to full-scale drills, support Entergy Texas customers by improving communication during storms, strengthening the grid, and helping ensure communities can recover as quickly as possible when severe weather strikes.

To learn more about hurricane preparedness and storm safety resources, visit Entergy’s Storm Center.

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