Power Outages And Road Closures Amid Overnight Storms In Bexar County

Overnight storms swept through Bexar County on Friday, bringing high winds, heavy rain, and a cascade of disruptions. Residents experienced widespread power outages and a series of road closures that impacted daily commutes, emergency response, and local businesses. Below is a concise overview of the storm’s effects, the areas most affected, and safety recommendations for those still coping with the aftermath.

Storm Overview and Wind Conditions

According to the National Weather Service, wind gusts peaked at nearly 50 MPH during the evening hours. The combination of strong gusts and saturated roadways created hazardous driving conditions, prompting officials to shut down several major thoroughfares until conditions improved.

Power Outages Across the County

Utility companies reported that nearly 30,000 customers lost electricity as a result of downed lines and damaged infrastructure. Restoration crews were dispatched throughout the night, prioritizing critical facilities such as hospitals, water treatment plants, and emergency shelters.

Key points about the outages:

Most outages occurred in the northern and eastern sections of the county.
Restoration times varied from a few hours to overnight, depending on the severity of damage.
Customers were advised to conserve energy and report hazards to their utility provider.

Road Closures and Traffic Impacts

KSAT’s reporter Patty Santos provided live coverage from the scene, showing flooded intersections and debris blocking lanes. The following routes were temporarily closed:

Interstate 35 southbound near Loop 1604.
San Antonio River Walk access road at the Museum of Art.
Farm-to-Market Road 1517 between Leon Creek and Elmendorf.

Local law enforcement and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) worked together to post detour signs and assist motorists in navigating alternate routes. Drivers were reminded to reduce speed, use headlights, and maintain a safe following distance.

Community Response and Preparedness

Neighborhood associations across Bexar County activated emergency contact lists and checked on vulnerable residents, including seniors and those with medical devices reliant on electricity. Shelters opened at community centers, offering charging stations, blankets, and refreshments.

In the wake of the storm, officials emphasized the importance of preparedness for future events. Recommended actions include:

Maintaining a 24‑hour emergency kit with water, non‑perishable food, flashlights, and a battery‑powered radio.
Keeping a list of local utility hotlines and the nearest emergency shelter locations.
Securing outdoor objects that could become projectiles in high winds.
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