Storm Alert – Getting Fuel Back Online

As the impacts of Winter Storm Fern continue following the weekend storm, Mansfield is closely monitoring conditions and working to support customers across affected regions. Customers with inventory-managed sites that are unable to receive a load due to power outages or hazardous road conditions should contact Mansfield at 800-695-6626. It's important to note that the storm brought heavy snow and ice across a large portion of the United States, leaving more than 800,000 homes without power and making many roads impassable.

More than 200 million people remain under cold or snow alerts, affecting nearly every state east of the Rockies. While the system is nearing its end and the Northeast is seeing the final round of snowfall, impacts are expected to continue across much of the country.

While some markets are beginning to reopen, others are still offline due to power or road hazards. Even where carriers are beginning to mobilize, delays may occur due to the icy roads and heavy demand. Mansfield deliveries remain on Code Red from Texas to New England, requiring a 72-hour notice for new requests. Mansfield remains on Code Orange in Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky, requesting a 48-hour notice.

Recovery Time

For fleets, the real work often begins after the storm passes. Getting operations back online safely requires careful attention to fuel access, tank conditions, and communication with suppliers.

Clear Communication

As sites reopen and operations resume, communication with fuel suppliers becomes one of the most important steps in post-storm recovery. Some fleets remain parked during severe weather, while others see demand increase as they respond to outages, debris removal, or emergency needs. Keeping suppliers informed about changing conditions helps avoid delays, unsafe deliveries, or unnecessary costs.

Site outages should be reported as soon as possible, especially if power is unavailable to pump fuel. Inventory levels should be closely monitored to ensure there is enough room in the tank before placing an order, and suppliers should be notified when normal operations resume.

Watch for Gelled or Iced Diesel Fuel

Extended periods of cold weather can create fuel operability issues, particularly when temperatures drop below 15°F. In these conditions, diesel fuel may become cloudy and eventually thicken into a waxy gel, clogging filters and preventing equipment from running. Water in fuel tanks can compound the problem, freezing at 32°F and restricting fuel flow.

After the storm, tanks and equipment should be checked for signs of gelling or icing. If issues are found, emergency reliquefiers such as RED ALERT or Diesel 9-1-1 can help restore fuel to a usable state. Addressing these problems early can significantly reduce downtime as fleets bring vehicles and generators back online.

Make Fuel Tanks Accessible Before Deliveries Resume

Even after snowfall ends, ice and snow can linger around fuel tanks and access points. One common post-storm challenge occurs when a fuel truck arrives on-site but cannot safely complete a delivery due to blocked filling lids, closed gates, or icy access roads. These situations often result in canceled deliveries and added fees.

Before deliveries resume, sites should be checked to ensure fill caps are visible and free of snow or ice. Gates should be unlocked or staffed, and access roads from the entrance to the tank area should be cleared. Taking these steps ahead of time helps ensure deliveries can be completed without delays.

Stay Ready!

Mansfield Energy, North America's leading fuel distributor, brings a wealth of expertise to the table in creating a robust emergency response program tailored to your company's needs. With an extensive network serving the US and Canada, Mansfield understands the importance of proactive measures to address potential disruptions from storms or other natural disasters.

Leveraging in-depth knowledge, Mansfield has developed a comprehensive Emergency Response Fuel Program that prescribes the industry's best practices. Mansfield's program enables a multi-faceted approach, prioritizing essential services and collaborating closely with partners to ensure seamless fuel distribution during emergencies. Contact us today!