League City prepares for power outages during Hurricane Laura

League City officials have warned residents how to prepare for power outages as Hurricane Laura approaches the Gulf coast.

Unlike Hurricane Harvey, Laura is expected to be a wind event with gusts capable of downing trees and power lines. As such, there is a chance that the city, especially older neighborhoods with large trees capable of destroying power lines upon falling, will experience prolonged power outages in the wake of the storm, according to a news release from the city.

League City officials have shared several tips related to power and electricity.

Residents should not call 911 to report power outages. Instead, residents should call Texas-New Mexico Power at 888-866-7456, according to the release.

Residents should check the batteries for flashlights, electric lanterns, handheld radios in advance. Phones, tablets, rechargeable lanterns and handheld video games should be charged in advance, the release reads.

Stock up on bottled water and nonperishable foods so refrigerators can remain closed, according to the release.

Residents should avoid downed power lines and equipment, assuming every line is deadly even if power is out in the area. If flood waters enter a resident's home, they should turn off the break box for safety, according to the release.

Hurricane Laura is expected to make landfall around the Texas and Louisiana border late Aug. 26 or early Aug. 27.