Power outages are more than just inconvenient; they can disrupt daily life, challenge your safety, and test your resilience.
From losing access to basic necessities to facing extreme weather, blackouts remind us how dependent we are on reliable energy.
However, preparation transforms these challenges into manageable situations.
This comprehensive guide can help you stay safe and comfortable when the lights go out.
#1. Stock Up on Essentials
Preparedness starts with the basics. Non-perishable foods, water, and essential supplies should always be on hand.
Experts recommend a two-week supply of food and water for each household member, with an allocation of one gallon of drinking water per person per day for hydration and cooking.4
Choose foods that don’t require cooking, like canned goods and granola bars.
Refrigeration presents another challenge. A full freezer keeps food cold for about 48 hours, while a half-full one lasts just 24 hours.1, 3
However, high-performance insulated coolers can significantly extend this timeframe. These coolers, engineered with thick walls and superior insulation, can maintain ice for several days depending on the conditions.
For example, some premium models can retain ice for up to five days, making them invaluable during prolonged outages. Using these coolers to store perishable items or ice provides an additional buffer when power is unavailable.
Stock up on ice and coolers to extend this period when outages occur.
#2. Plan for Medical and Energy Needs
For those relying on electricity for medical devices or refrigerated medications, a power outage can be life-threatening.
Preparing alternative power sources like generators or battery backups is critical.2 Work with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive plan tailored to your needs.
If using a generator, safety is paramount.
Place it at least 20 feet from your home to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, and never run it indoors or in an attached garage.3, 5 Ensure you have sufficient fuel and know how to operate the equipment safely.
Portable solar generators provide an excellent, eco-friendly alternative for powering small appliances, phones, and other essential devices during outages. These units are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, relying on sunlight to charge their batteries.
Many models are compact and highly efficient, making them ideal for running medical devices like CPAP machines, charging mobile phones, or even powering small fans. Their portability and quiet operation make them a convenient solution for both emergency and everyday use, without the risks associated with traditional fuel-powered generators.
By incorporating these tools into your emergency plan, you can ensure your household remains safe and connected during an outage.
#3. Keep the Lights On Safely
Reliable lighting during a blackout is vital.
Flashlights, battery-powered lanterns, and extra batteries are your best allies—avoid candles, which increase fire risks, especially in households with children or pets.5
For a sustainable option, consider motion-powered flashlights.
To protect your electronics, use surge protectors and unplug appliances to guard against damage when power is restored. These simple steps help preserve valuable devices during unpredictable outages.3
#4. Stay Connected and Informed
Communication can be the difference between feeling isolated and staying informed during an outage.
Keep your phone charged, and have backup power banks ready. To conserve energy, switch your device to airplane mode or use power-saving settings.
Write down emergency contacts in case your phone dies, and invest in a crank or battery-powered radio to stay informed about weather updates and restoration efforts.3 Signing up for local alert systems also ensures you receive timely warnings.4
#5. Prepare Your Home for Comfort and Safety
Extreme weather can turn power outages into survival challenges.
In winter, seal windows and doors to retain heat, while in summer, identify community cooling centers where you can seek relief.
Safety should guide every decision.
Never use outdoor appliances like gas stoves or grills indoors to avoid dangerous fumes.4 Rely on approved heating and cooling methods to maintain a safe environment for everyone in your household.
#6. Be Ready To Evacuate
Sometimes, staying home isn’t safe. Prolonged outages may necessitate evacuation.
Keep a go-bag ready with essentials such as medications, vital documents, and flashlights. Maintain at least a half-tank of gas in your vehicle to ensure you can leave when necessary.4
Why Are Power Outages On the Rise?
The frequency and severity of blackouts are often linked to aging infrastructure.
By 2023, 70% of U.S. transmission lines exceeded 25 years of age, making them increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather.9 Advocating for modernized systems and investment in renewable energy can bolster grid resilience and reduce widespread outages.
While systemic change takes time, individual action, such as installing solar panels or backup battery systems, provides immediate benefits. These measures enhance your household’s energy independence during disruptions.
Create a Community Plan
Resilience isn’t just personal; it’s communal. Checking on elderly or vulnerable neighbors ensures their safety, while sharing resources like food or charging devices fosters mutual support.
A well-prepared community can weather outages with greater ease and solidarity.3
After the Power Returns
The end of an outage doesn’t mark the end of precautions.
Discard perishable food left above 40°F for more than two hours to prevent foodborne illness.
Inspect appliances and circuits for damage before use. If you used a generator, turn it off and store it properly to ensure safety for future use.1, 5
Understanding the Impact of Power Outages
Power outages can stem from severe weather, aging infrastructure, or surging energy demands.
Between 2013 and 2023, extreme weather events caused all ten of the largest U.S. blackouts, with Hurricane Irma in 2017 leaving 3.5 million Floridians in the dark.6
Texas, notorious for its aging grid, accounted for three of these top events, exposing the critical need for resilient systems.
| 10 Largest Power Outages in the U.S. (2013-2024) | |||
| Year | Event | Area Affected | Customers Affected |
| 2024 | Hurricane Helene | Southeastern US | 5,100,00010 |
| 2017 | Hurricane Irma | Florida | 3,500,000 |
| 2021 | Winter storm | Texas | 2,000,000 |
| 2018 | Hurricane Florence | North & South Carolina | 1,458,000 |
| 2016 | Hurricane Matthew | Florida | 1,200,000 |
| 2020 | Tropical Storm Isaias | New England | 1,188,000 |
| 2017 | Hurricane Harvey | Texas | 1,077,000 |
| 2019 | Wildfires | California | 972,000 |
| 2013 | Winter storm | Texas | 881,000 |
| 2023 | Winter storm | New England | 730,000 |
Understanding the root causes and potential impact of outages helps underscore the importance of preparedness.
Using Your Solar Panels During Extreme Weather: Protection Tips
Solar panels are an invaluable resource during power outages, providing essential functions like refrigeration, communication, and lighting. By maintaining operational systems post-storm, solar panels not only ensure individual resilience but also alleviate strain on the grid, enabling broader access to limited energy resources.
To maximize the benefits of solar technology in extreme weather, proactive preparation is key.
While most solar panels are designed to withstand winds up to 140 mph and hailstones up to 1 inch in diameter, additional steps can significantly reduce the risk of damage and ensure optimal performance:7
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Remove branches near your panels to prevent them from falling and causing damage during high winds or storms.
- Secure Loose Items: Eliminate potential hazards by securing outdoor furniture, tools, or debris that could become airborne projectiles.
- Turn Off Your Panels During Storms: Disconnecting your solar array during severe weather can prevent power surges and electrical hazards.
- Schedule Regular Inspections: Periodically check your panels for wear and tear, including seal integrity and mounting fastenings, to ensure durability during adverse conditions.
A charged home battery system adds another layer of security, enabling uninterrupted power for critical functions even when the grid is offline. This integration of solar technology with energy storage systems makes renewable energy a reliable ally during outages.
For an in-depth approach, consider using a storm-hardening checklist developed by expert organizations like the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).8 These resources provide step-by-step guidance on tasks to undertake in the days leading up to severe weather, such as optimizing system settings, securing electrical connections, and evaluating structural safeguards.
By pairing proactive maintenance with detailed preparedness strategies, you can ensure your solar PV system remains a robust and resilient energy solution, ready to support your household and community when it’s needed most.
Power outages are inevitable, but the challenges they bring don’t have to be overwhelming.
By stocking essential supplies, addressing medical and energy needs, and fostering community resilience, you can ensure safety and comfort for your household. Advocacy for infrastructure upgrades and renewable energy further strengthens collective preparedness.
Take action today—because when the lights go out, preparation shines brightest.
References
1U.S. Department of Homeland Security. (2024). Power Outages. Ready.gov. Retrieved November 19, 2024, from <https://www.ready.gov/power-outages>
2U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). What to Do to Protect Yourself During a Power Outage. CDC. Retrieved November 19, 2024, from <https://www.cdc.gov/natural-disasters/response/what-to-do-protect-yourself-during-a-power-outage.html>
3Rae, H., & Hope, P. (2023, August 23). How to Survive a Prolonged Power Outage. Consumer Reports. Retrieved November 19, 2024, from <https://www.consumerreports.org/home-garden/home-safety/how-to-survive-a-prolonged-power-outage-a1579830430/>
4The American National Red Cross. (2024). Power Outage Safety. American Red Cross. Retrieved November 19, 2024, from <https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/power-outage.html>
5U.S. Department of Energy. (2022, May 23). How to Prepare Your Home for a Blackout. Energy.gov. Retrieved November 19, 2024, from <https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/articles/how-prepare-your-home-blackout>
6U.S. Department of Energy. (2024). Electric Disturbance Events (OE-417) Annual Summaries. Energy.gov. Retrieved November 19, 2024, from <https://www.oe.netl.doe.gov/OE417_annual_summary.aspx>
7Panasonic Corporation of America. (2024). How to Prevent Severe Weather Damage to Solar Panels. Panasonic North America. Retrieved November 19, 2024, from <https://green-living.na.panasonic.com/articles/how-to-prevent-severe-weather-damage-to-solar-panels>
8National Renewable Energy Laboratory. (2022, May). Preparing Solar Photovoltaic Systems Against Storms. NREL. Retrieved November 19, 2024, from <https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy22osti/81968.pdf>
9U.S. Department of Energy. (2023, October 19). What does it take to modernize the U.S. electric grid?. Energy.gov. Retrieved November 19, 2024, from <https://www.energy.gov/gdo/articles/what-does-it-take-modernize-us-electric-grid>
10Federal Emergency Management Agency. (2024, October 25). Biden-Harris Administration Highlights Progress One Month Since Hurricane Helene Made Landfall, Provides Billions to Help People Recover Across the Southeast. FEMA. Retrieved November 19, 2024, from <https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20241025/biden-harris-administration-highlights-progress-one-month-hurricane-helene>