Rolling blackouts, bone-chilling cold, and now bursting pipes for the holidays in Middle Tennessee

Metro Nashville PD

Middle Tennessee has been below freezing since last week, with temps at times dropping into single digits. The frigid weather has caused major problems with electricity, travel and now, water service in Nashville and the region.

The wintry weather led to loss of power for up to 72,000 Nashville Electric Service customers since Friday. Similar outages were reported by Middle Tennessee Electric and Cumberland Electric.

We are happy to report that all known power outages associated with the recent frigid temperatures have been restored. At its peak, 72,000 customers in the NES service area lost power during record-breaking, dangerously cold weather. 1/5

— Nashville Electric Service (@NESpower) December 26, 2022

The region also experienced rolling blackouts—during which electric companies briefly and periodically cut power to some households on Friday through Sunday. That was due to an unusual request by Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) in an effort to deal with surging usage that strained the electric grid. NES says that all power was restored as of Monday afternoon, but customers who are still without electricity should contact their electric company.

Now, the concern turns to water service and the likelihood of mains and pipes breaking as frozen water lines begin to thaw. Metro Water Services warns property owners to be alert for breaks and know where their water shut-off is located.

For unhoused residents, Nashville’s Extreme Cold Weather Shelter will remain open through at least Tuesday night and cold patrols will continue to distribute blankets, coats and gloves.

After fresh snowfall on Monday and remaining ice on some streets, NDOT crews will continue to treat primary roads. Still, drivers are urged to be cautious until the freeze ends, which is forecast to happen mid-week.

The problems with the electrical grid have generated an outcry on social media. Some Tennessee lawmakers are now suggesting TVA’s preparation and response need further investigation. State Senator Jeff Yarbro wants the state to look at infrastructure and management to avoid future rolling black outs and another major power disruption due to weather. 

There needs to be a serious conversation with TVA-@TVAnews, @GovBillLee, our electrical systems, & other state/local officials about how to avoid rolling blackouts and this level of disruption. Whether we need to improve infrastructure, management, or policies, we need to do it.

— Jeff Yarbro (@yarbro) December 24, 2022