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MLGW - Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division
08/24/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/24/2026 11:08
Bow Echo Storm Restoration Update
Bow Echo Storm Restoration Update
August 24, 2026
Nearly 100,000 customers restored - smaller, more complex outage will take more time to repair
MLGW has 32 troubleshooters, 97 (22 MLGW, 75 Contract) line crews, and 83 tree trimming crews working to restore power to customers affected by a bow echo storm system that hit Memphis and Shelby County in the evening hours of Saturday, August 22.
Straight-line winds of more than 70 mph wreaked havoc on the electric system, impacting more than 140,000 customers. MLGW and contracted crews restored power to nearly 100,000 customers in 36 hours. NOTE: MLGW is not disconnecting for non-payment today while restoration work continues.
Work will continue until all customers are restored. Smaller, more complex outages will take more time to repair. Customers currently without power should plan to be without power for multiple days. The vast majority of customers are expected to be restored by Thursday, August 27. Once outage numbers are below 30,000 customers can expect to see estimated repair times associated with their outages.
MLGW's EPIC (Emergency Response Information Center) vehicle will be at the Hickory Hill Community Center today from 1-6 p.m.
MLGW is working with the City of Memphis and Emergency Agencies to coordinate support for customers who need it. There is a press conference today at the Hickory Hill Community Center at 4 p.m. which will be shared on Facebook Live.
Storm facts:
Replacing poles is a major construction job. Each utility pole takes an average of 8 hours to repair. For the safety of our employees and the public, this work can include closing roads and directing traffic, requiring coordination time with law enforcement and others.
MLGW has crews ready to complete damage assessments and make repairs and restore power to all customers safely and as quickly as possible. Emergency tree trimming crews are available to clear debris. Working in challenging conditions on complex tasks, crews will continue efforts around-the-clock to restore power to customers, some of whom may experience extended outages.
Memphis Light, Gas and Water is the largest three-service public power utility in the nation, serving the residents of Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee since 1939. MLGW consistently provides customers with rates that are amongst the lowest in the nation and stewards a water supply from artesian wells that is minimally treated. Actively engaged in promoting the prosperity of Memphis and Shelby County, MLGW supports the seven local chambers in its service area and makes doing business with local, minority- and women-owned business a priority. Deeply rooted in the community, its employees generously donate time and money in support of bettering the Greater Memphis area.
MLGW - Memphis Light, Gas and Water Division published this content on August 24, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on August 24, 2026 at 17:09 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]