Grid infrastructureUnited StatesEIR-1773

Transformer explosion cuts power to Katy junior high school

May 2024Published 2 Oct 2026

SignificantElectricalNorth America

Companies named in this entry: CenterPoint Energy

What happened

Severe thunderstorms with wind gusts up to 75 mph struck Katy, Texas on 28 May 2024. A transformer exploded and a power line set a tree on fire. The explosion caused a partial loss of electricity at Seven Lakes Junior High School at 6026 Katy-Gaston Road. CenterPoint Energy reported around 325,000 customers without power across the region. The school was on summer break but administrative and maintenance staff were present. Power was later restored. Katy ISD stated that the school's generator was running and normal work continued.

Contributing factors

High winds and severe thunderstorms affected overhead lines and transformers in the area.

Lessons learned

Grid operators should review the resilience of overhead lines and transformers to extreme wind events.
Schools and other critical facilities should confirm backup power availability before adverse weather.
Rapid restoration planning reduces disruption when distribution assets fail.

Source

coveringkaty.com

Published 2026-10-02. Written from public reporting. Descriptive, not investigative. See the data accuracy disclaimer.

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