Altus initiates recovery operations for ice storm Published Jan. 31, 2010 By 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- A severe ice storm swept through Oklahoma and northern Texas on Thursday, Jan. 28, causing significant damage to the base. The housing area lost power at 4:35 p.m. and the industrial portion blacked out at 9:35 p.m. The base initiated emergency response operations to provide relief to Airmen and their families. The ice storm damaged power lines, facilities, communications and trees throughout the base. Approximately 200 family members have taken shelter at designated locations on base. Essential services and meals are being provided to base personnel and their dependents. Altus AFB is currently coordinating with Lackland AFB and Dyess AFB, Texas, and Vance AFB, Okla., to provide relief with personnel and equipment to include diesel generators, bucket lifts and line trucks. Altus AFB is working closely with the city of Altus and Jackson County Emergency Management officials on recovery efforts. Altus AFB has provided heaters, diesel fuel and electricians to support local recovery efforts. A timeline for the return of power is undetermined. Altus AFB personnel continue to repair infrastructure in anticipation of the return of commercial power and are taking actions to protect essential facilities against continued adverse weather until power is restored. More information will be released as soon as details become available.