Sept. 11, 2024 | 10 a.m.
Francine has strengthened from a tropical storm to a category 1 hurricane. The most recent track shows the storm heading toward Louisiana and further away from southeast Texas. The impact to our area is expected to be minimal.
We urge our Xfinity and Comcast Business customers to check news reports for the latest updates and remain prepared throughout the duration of hurricane season. Our thoughts are with our neighbors in Louisiana.
Xfinity’s Tips for Storm Preparedness
Xfinity’s Storm-Ready WiFi keeps you connected even when the power goes out. Learn more here.
As a technology user, here’s how you can prepare:
- Enroll in Text Alerts & Follow us on Social Media:
- Download the Xfinity Stream App:
- Stay informed during storms by watching live local news reports on any device using the Xfinity Stream app.
- Check Your Data Plan:
- Use the Xfinity Mobile app to adjust your data plan or upgrade it to turn your phone into a hotspot.
Comcast Business Tips
- You can get the latest updates on outages on business.comcast.com or the Comcast Business App. You can get the latest updates on outages on business.comcast.com or the Comcast Business App.
- Enable Be Anywhere in the Comcast Business App. Allow your device to make calls with your business’s Call ID. Product features available in the Comcast Business App will vary depending on your ordered service(s).
- Turn on Call Forwarding. Make sure your mobile device is set up to receive business calls.
- Locate your nearest Xfinity WiFi hotspot. In case of an emergency, make sure you know where the closest one is.
- Remember to access the Service Status Center. It’s the easiest way to assess the status of your services.
- Get real-time service updates through your mobile phone. If you haven’t already done so, register your mobile number in the preference center within My Account to receive text messages about service interruptions on your mobile device between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Additional Tips
- Surge Protectors: Plug TVs, modems, and cable boxes into surge protectors to prevent damage from lightning or sudden power outages.
- Higher Ground: Move your hardware off the floor and make sure the location is stable. In case your floor floods or a filing cabinet gets knocked over, you want to make sure your devices stay safe.
- Restoration Priority: Understand that electricity restoration takes precedence. Comcast crews need clearance before restoring Xfinity services.
- Device Resets: If you have electricity but no Xfinity services, restart or reset devices (gateways, modems, routers, cable boxes).
- Safety First: Stay clear of downed power and cable lines.
- Phone Preparedness:
- Keep your phone charged and dry.
- Program emergency contact numbers and emails.
- During the storm, opt for texts over calls (they require fewer network resources).
Remember, severe weather can strike southeast Texas unexpectedly. By following these guidelines, you’ll be better prepared to weather any storm while staying connected and informed.