Lubbock Power & Light Crews Step Up for Mutual Aid in the Wake of Hurricanes
When natural disasters hit, the spirit of mutual aid becomes a lifeline for communities in need. Our linemen at Lubbock Power & Light (LP&L) took swift action to assist Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) in Florida, where our teams joined forces to restore power to thousands of residents impacted by back-to-back hurricanes. Through our partnerships and commitment to mutual aid with the American Public Power Association (APPA), we are proud to have made a tangible difference in the lives of those affected.
Following the devastation of Hurricane Helene, LP&L crews were quick to mobilize and lend a hand in Gainesville. Our team drove two days to reach the area in late September and remained onsite riding out the storm, working seven consecutive 16-hour days. In this time, LP&L crews collaborated with GRU teams, overcoming severe weather and demanding conditions to repair 84 utility poles, replace 25 transformers, and restore 342 downed power lines. Through their tireless dedication—totaling over 195 hours worked—our linemen helped bring power back to over 60,000 homes and businesses, restoring a sense of stability to the Gainesville community in its time of need.
"The terrain out there is nothing like what we’re used to,” said Lineman Mason Cain. “You can usually get a truck close to where you need it, but in Gainesville, you’re working in backyards that feel like a jungle—pushing through plants, maneuvering around everything. Some of the poles were so overgrown, they looked like trees. It’s a completely different ball game. Everyone was incredibly thankful to see us out there, and we just focused on doing each step right.”
In less than two weeks, Florida faced another hurricane. LP&L answered the call once more, sending a fresh team of linemen to assist with Hurricane Milton power restoration efforts. Despite the difficult conditions, our crews spent long hours rebuilding infrastructure and restoring power to thousands more. This commitment to mutual aid underscores LP&L’s dedication to supporting our neighbors beyond Lubbock.
“This storm was more labor-intensive than any before,” said Lineman Brad Harrison. “Our team knew the risks, but their priority was to look out for one another and get back to their families safely. They’re professionals—cool, calm, and collected. They rode out the storm, faced the nerves, and went in to do their job.”
The recent hurricanes remind us that mutual aid is more than just sending support—it’s about standing together when resilience is put to the test. We are grateful to our dedicated teams for exemplifying that commitment. Their expertise and willingness to help others in times of crisis showcase the very best of LP&L’s values. As a community-powered utility, LP&L is honored to be a part of APPA’s mutual aid network that comes to each other’s assistance during emergencies.
“The linemen in our neighborhood today drove 36 hours and 2,000 miles from Lubbock, Texas, to assist us,” one Gainesville resident shared on social media. “We got them hoagies from our favorite local sandwich shop, Hogan’s! From our Gainesville community to yours, Lubbock Power & Light, we thank you so much for helping us recover!”
The overwhelming gratitude from Gainesville highlighted the profound impact of LP&L’s dedication during this time of recovery. In recognition of their exceptional efforts, the Electric Utility Board honored the teams at the October and November board meetings, celebrating their hard work and commitment to service.
