LUFKIN/NACOGDOCHES, Texas (May 15, 2026) —Oncor recently hosted a regional roundtable in East Texas on May 14, 2026, bringing together local leaders, emergency management officials, first responders, and meteorology experts to discuss severe weather trends, community preparedness, and coordinated response efforts.

The discussion, moderated by Oncor meteorologist Kaiti Blake, highlighted severe weather across East Texas, ranging from powerful spring and summer storms to winter weather events like Winter Storm Fern, as well as increasing risks from tropical systems and wildfires. Participants shared insights on how these evolving threats are impacting local communities and how stronger collaboration can support preparedness and response.

“Strong communities are built on strong partnerships,” said Oncor Area Manager Nolan Smith. “Our relationships with local leaders and emergency responders across East Texas are critical to how we prepare for severe weather, communicate with residents, and restore service safely and efficiently.”

Local leaders and emergency officials discussed challenges unique to East Texas, including the region’s dense vegetation, which can amplify storm damage and complicate restoration efforts.

The group also reflected on lessons learned from Winter Storm Fern in early 2026, emphasizing the importance of early planning, clear communication, and coordinated response across agencies.

Oncor leaders outlined ongoing efforts to improve system reliability, enhance vegetation management, and prioritize safety for both crews and the public during storm response operations. 

“Safety is our top priority in every storm response,” said Oncor East Region Operations Director Sal Mahdi. “That means protecting our crews working in challenging conditions, as well as the public who share those roads and communities. We can only do that when everyone is aware, patient, and committed to safety together.”

The roundtable reinforced a shared commitment among utilities, government agencies, and emergency responders to continue improving coordination and communication to keep East Texas communities safe.

• Rick Beverlin: Nacogdoches City Manager

• Brian W. Bray: Lufkin Assistant City Manager 

• Kaiti Blake: Oncor Meteorologist

• Chris Bentley: Nacogdoches County Judge 

• Ricky Conner: Angelina County Homeland Security & Emergency Management Coordinator

• Brad Hlozek: KTRE Chief Meteorologist 

• Sal Mahdi: Oncor East Region Operations Director

• Jesse Moody: Lufkin Fire Chief & Emergency Management Coordinator 

• Misty Nixon: District Director for State Rep. Joanne Shofner

• Nolan Smith: Oncor Lufkin/Nacogdoches Area Manager 

• Tara Triana: Nacogdoches County Emergency Management

• Tom Trimble: Oncor East Region Customer Service Director