M.U.D. prepared for winter storm, increased gas supply demands

Metropolitan Utilities District is prepared to continue providing life-essential natural gas and water to its customers through this weekend’s winter storm that is bringing very cold temperatures. 

M.U.D. gas supply and operations staff are monitoring the system and equipment to ensure safe and reliable delivery of gas to customers. To meet increased demands during this cold snap, M.U.D. is purchasing additional gas on the market and utilizing its onsite gas storage facilities. 

Many M.U.D. employees are working during the cold weather and on the holidays. Our gas and water crews are on standby 24/7 to respond to gas and water emergencies, including repairs of main breaks. 

M.U.D.’s first priority is the safety of employees and the public. If customers are without service, crews will make repairs and restore service as quickly as possible. If there is a break on a main where no customer is affected, the work may be barricaded and worked when temperatures rise. 

At job sites, people may see our trucks running which is to help power equipment and allows crews to warm up. There will be more people than normal on work sites to allow for increased warming breaks. 

M.U.D. offers these reminders to customers:

• Are you planning to be away for an extended period over the holidays? Remember to keep the furnace on a lower setting to conserve energy and lower your heating bill.
• Your outdoor gas meter needs to be clear of snow on and around it. When possible, use a broom or brush, instead of a shovel to clear snow off regulators, meters, associated piping, tubing, gauges or other system equipment.
• For tips to prevent frozen pipes in your home, visit the article about Winterizing your Water Pipes. For natural gas safety information, visit this page.
• If you have a gas or water emergency, please call 402.554.7777. If you smell gas, first leave the building or area, and then call the emergency number or 911. There is no charge for this service.