Power Outages and Data Loss: Winter Weather’s Hidden Threat to Schools

Winter storms don’t just threaten roofs, pipes, and parking lots. They also introduce operational and financial risks for your district’s technology infrastructure. Power outages, voltage fluctuations, and extreme temperatures can damage servers, corrupt data, interrupt business operations, and lead to costly claims.

Schools can reduce equipment loss and downtime by identifying exposures, implementing controls, and following structured recovery procedures.

Identify Exposure: Winter Weather + Technology Vulnerabilities

Texas winter storms bring predictable risks to technology equipment: sudden power loss, fluctuating voltage, overheating when HVAC shuts down, prolonged outages, and improper shutdown or restart procedures. Understanding these exposures lays the foundation for effective controls.

Mitigate the Risk Before a Storm: Strengthen Critical Systems

Test and Strengthen UPS/Battery Backup Systems

• Test all UPS units well before winter weather.
• Measure actual run time and replace weak batteries.
• Ensure UPS supports secondary cooling fans for servers.

Prepare IT Spaces for Safe Outage Operations

• Stock server rooms with flashlights or lanterns.
• Label breakers, circuits, and equipment.

Establish Outage Response and Recovery Checklists

• Document shutdown and startup procedures.
• Create verification checklists for post‑outage functionality.
• Establish alternate communication pathways (text alerts, mobile app).

Control the Impact During an Outage: Ensure Reliable Backup Power

Maintain and test generators and backup electrical systems

• Run generators monthly (30 minutes at ~30% load).
• Investigate noises, leaks, and electrical irregularities.
• Complete a comprehensive annual generator test.
• Replace gasoline/diesel older than one year or use stabilizers.
• Inspect propane tanks, lines, and regulators.

Prevent Loss After Power Is Restored: Use a Structured Restart Process

Use a layered power‑up strategy

• Start with switches, firewalls, and domain controllers.
• Bring database and storage systems online next.
• Restore application servers last.
• Follow vendor-specific startup instructions.

Verify system health before reconnecting users

• Test SIS, HR/payroll, LMS, and communication systems.
• Use checklists to validate stability.
• Notify staff when systems are fully restored.

Most winter-weather technology claims are preventable. With thoughtful preparation, districts can reduce equipment loss, protect sensitive data, and ensure a faster return to normal operations.