Storm Preparedness Strategies for U.S. Power Utilities in 2024
Storm Readiness: A Growing Imperative for U.S. Power Utilities
In 2024, America’s power utilities once again faced a stark reminder of the havoc that extreme weather can cause. The Atlantic hurricane season, predicted to be above average, delivered on that forecast with devastating results. Hurricanes Beryl, Debby, and the destructive one-two punch of Helene and Milton knocked out power to millions of homes and businesses. Now, utilities in at-risk areas are being warned: another turbulent season may be on the horizon.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) projects a 60% chance of an above-normal hurricane season between June 1 and November 30. Out of an expected 13 to 19 named storms, six to ten could intensify into hurricanes with winds topping 74 mph, and three to five may reach Category 3 strength or higher, with winds exceeding 111 mph. Historically, about half of the tropical storms recorded in an average year evolve into hurricanes, according to NOAA’s data from 1991 to 2020.
For utilities, storm readiness is a year-round priority — but with another potentially active hurricane season ahead, the urgency to refine response plans has never been greater. Even those outside coastal regions face their own threats, including severe thunderstorms, wildfires, droughts, and landslides, all of which can disrupt electricity delivery. Across the country, pressure is mounting to invest in grid modernization, strengthen resilience, and prepare critical resources — from repair crews and specialized vehicles to drones, replacement poles, and transformers.
Preparedness Starts Before Landfall
The cost of extreme weather continues to escalate. Since 1980, the U.S. has endured 403 weather and climate disasters each causing at least $1 billion in damages, with total losses approaching $2.92 trillion. Persistent challenges — such as aging infrastructure and the integration of renewable energy — add complexity to storm preparedness, as does the need for robust vegetation management to protect above-ground lines.
According to Black & Veatch’s 2024 Electric Report, based on insights from more than 700 industry stakeholders, many utilities are making strides in preparedness, but gaps remain. One in four respondents does not engage in climate-related disaster scenario planning, and nearly the same number fails to explicitly factor climate risk into operational strategies. Experts recommend using climate risk modeling and predictive analytics to pinpoint vulnerable assets and guide investment in mitigation.
Utilities can strengthen their readiness by:
In 2024, America’s power utilities once again faced a stark reminder of the havoc that extreme weather can cause. The Atlantic hurricane season, predicted to be above average, delivered on that forecast with devastating results. Hurricanes Beryl, Debby, and the destructive one-two punch of Helene and Milton knocked out power to millions of homes and businesses. Now, utilities in at-risk areas are being warned: another turbulent season may be on the horizon.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) projects a 60% chance of an above-normal hurricane season between June 1 and November 30. Out of an expected 13 to 19 named storms, six to ten could intensify into hurricanes with winds topping 74 mph, and three to five may reach Category 3 strength or higher, with winds exceeding 111 mph. Historically, about half of the tropical storms recorded in an average year evolve into hurricanes, according to NOAA’s data from 1991 to 2020.
For utilities, storm readiness is a year-round priority — but with another potentially active hurricane season ahead, the urgency to refine response plans has never been greater. Even those outside coastal regions face their own threats, including severe thunderstorms, wildfires, droughts, and landslides, all of which can disrupt electricity delivery. Across the country, pressure is mounting to invest in grid modernization, strengthen resilience, and prepare critical resources — from repair crews and specialized vehicles to drones, replacement poles, and transformers.
Preparedness Starts Before Landfall
The cost of extreme weather continues to escalate. Since 1980, the U.S. has endured 403 weather and climate disasters each causing at least $1 billion in damages, with total losses approaching $2.92 trillion. Persistent challenges — such as aging infrastructure and the integration of renewable energy — add complexity to storm preparedness, as does the need for robust vegetation management to protect above-ground lines.
According to Black & Veatch’s 2024 Electric Report, based on insights from more than 700 industry stakeholders, many utilities are making strides in preparedness, but gaps remain. One in four respondents does not engage in climate-related disaster scenario planning, and nearly the same number fails to explicitly factor climate risk into operational strategies. Experts recommend using climate risk modeling and predictive analytics to pinpoint vulnerable assets and guide investment in mitigation.
Utilities can strengthen their readiness by:
- Regularly reviewing and updating emergency response plans, ensuring close coordination with federal, state, and local agencies.
- Defining clear processes for personnel deployment and resource allocation.
- Running storm-scenario drills to identify weaknesses and improve rapid-response capabilities.
- Collaborating with first responders across jurisdictions for a unified approach.
- Stockpiling critical equipment and repair materials.
- Establishing reliable communication systems for crisis updates.
Responding After the Storm
When severe weather strikes, utilities must respond with precision, speed, and the right tools. This requires a blend of advanced technology and field expertise. Black & Veatch, along with its storm-restoration arm Bird Electric, offers end-to-end disaster response solutions — from preparation to boots-on-the-ground recovery.
Modern recovery efforts increasingly rely on innovations such as geospatial digital mapping, advanced analytics, mobile field command centers, and fully equipped base camps that support restoration crews. Resource and incident management software streamlines operations, while aerial and drone technology helps assess damage quickly and accurately.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of storm recovery hinges on the groundwork laid beforehand. Every storm is unique, but proactive planning shapes the speed and success of the response. Inadequate preparation not only prolongs outages but also risks public frustration, political scrutiny, and preventable reputational damage. For utilities, the message is clear: readiness is not optional — it’s the foundation of resilience.
When severe weather strikes, utilities must respond with precision, speed, and the right tools. This requires a blend of advanced technology and field expertise. Black & Veatch, along with its storm-restoration arm Bird Electric, offers end-to-end disaster response solutions — from preparation to boots-on-the-ground recovery.
Modern recovery efforts increasingly rely on innovations such as geospatial digital mapping, advanced analytics, mobile field command centers, and fully equipped base camps that support restoration crews. Resource and incident management software streamlines operations, while aerial and drone technology helps assess damage quickly and accurately.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of storm recovery hinges on the groundwork laid beforehand. Every storm is unique, but proactive planning shapes the speed and success of the response. Inadequate preparation not only prolongs outages but also risks public frustration, political scrutiny, and preventable reputational damage. For utilities, the message is clear: readiness is not optional — it’s the foundation of resilience.
Companies