Summer Storm Alert
Late June through September is monsoon season in Arizona. These summer storms pack high winds, blowing dust, spectacular lightning displays and occasionally, torrential rains. While nature’s fury is exciting to watch, these storms can pose dangers from lightning strikes and downed power lines, and can interrupt electric service.
APS wants you to remain safe and comfortable during these storms and to be prepared in the event of an electrical outage. Knowing what to do and what not to do during these storms can help you weather the monsoon season safely. Visit the APS Outage Center on our home page for more helpful tips and information.
Summer storm safety
The best way to stay safe and comfortable during storms and power outages is to plan ahead. Know what to do and have the proper equipment on hand.
Prepare before the storm
When the power goes off, lights and communications and transportation are top priorities. Keep flashlights or battery-powered lanterns on hand. Have a battery-operated radio handy so in the event of a power outage you can find out when power will be restored. Stock up on extra batteries.
Lightning safety
Summer storms are often accompanied by lightning, which poses a hazard whether you are indoors or out. Stay safe by following these tips from the Lightning Protection Institute.
Outdoors
If you're caught outside and cannot get to a safe shelter
- Get in a hard-topped car
- Avoid areas that are higher than the surrounding landscape
- Keep away from metal objects including bikes, golf carts, fencing, etc.
- If you feel a tingling sensation or your hair stands on end, lightning may be about to strike! Immediately crouch down and cover your ears. Do not lie down or place your hands on the ground
Indoors
Lightning creates a magnetic field that radiates out and can be picked up by electrical wires and plumbing, even if it doesn’t actually strike your home.
- Stand clear from windows, doors and electrical appliances
- Unplug appliances well before a storm nears
- Avoid taking a bath or shower or coming into contact with running water or piping including sinks, baths and faucets
- Do not use the telephone except for emergencies
Downed power lines
Always stay away from downed power lines; treat them as if they were energized. Never assume that a fallen wire is safe.
If a power line hits your car when you’re in it, stay in the vehicle. Try to attract help by blowing the horn and remain calmly in the vehicle until help arrives. Keep others away as well.
If your vehicle catches fire and you must leave, jump and land with both feet together, being careful not to touch the vehicle and ground at the same time. Never try to remove someone trapped by a power line.
Reporting a power outage
You can report a power outage and get outage status information through APS’ automated phone system. Make sure there is no danger of lightning strike before pick up the phone, and when you call, be prepared to give your APS account number and phone number.
To report an outage, dial (602) 371-7171 in the Phoenix area, or (800) 253-9405.
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