Texas Has the Most Weather-Related Power Outages in the Nation

When it comes to weather-related power outages, Texas leads the nation.

TEXAS LEADS THE NATION IN MAJOR OUTAGES

Between 2000 and 2023, the state reported 210 major outages caused by severe weather, making it the most affected state in the U.S. by a significant margin.

Nationally, 80% of major power outages during this period were weather-related, with Texas experiencing a disproportionate share of these disruptions.

SEVERE WEATHER IS THE MAIN CULPRIT

Severe weather is the primary culprit, responsible for 58% of outages, followed by winter storms at 23% and tropical cyclones, including hurricanes, at 14%.

The state's frequent extreme weather events—ranging from intense heat waves to severe thunderstorms—strain its aging energy infrastructure, which was not designed for the intensity of today’s climate.

THE IMPACT OF OUTAGES IS MORE THAN INCONVENIENT

The impact of these outages extends beyond mere inconvenience. They disrupt access to clean water, food, and critical healthcare services, and can have cascading effects on communication networks and transportation.

Moreover, power outages often disproportionately affect marginalized communities, exacerbating existing inequalities.

POWER OUTAGES BY STATE

The states with the most reported weather-related power outages from 2000 to 2023 were: Texas (210); Michigan (157); California (145); North Carolina (111); and Ohio (88).

This surge in outages is part of a broader trend. The U.S. has seen about double the weather-related outages in the last decade compared to the first. As extreme weather events become more frequent due to climate change, the stress on our electrical grid will likely increase.

Check out the full report HERE.