So much for a mild May. For the second time in three nights, storm conditions have knocked out power in areas of Austin.

Austin Energy reports that 1,500 homes and businesses initially lost power, due up to 10 power poles being knocked down in tonight’s deluge. By 10pm that figure had fallen to 1,000, but the utility has 17 teams out working on over a hundred locations, plus an extra six teams trimming downed branches.

AE spokesman Ed Clark said the utility hopes to have all power restored by 5am. In the mean time, anyone experiencing a blackout should report it at 322-9100.

UPDATE: As of 6am, Austin Energy was still trying to get power back up for the last 290 customers, with repairs at 28 locations.

With unseasonal intermittent storms forecast throughout the week, it seems Austin Energy could have its work cut out. Additionally, there has been anecdotal evidence that cell phone coverage around town (frankly, never that great for a major tech center) has suffered in the recent rough weather.

This article appears in May 4 • 2012.

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The Chronicle's first Culture Desk editor, Richard has reported on Austin's growing film production and appreciation scene for over a decade. A graduate of the universities of York, Stirling, and UT-Austin, a Rotten Tomatoes certified critic, and eight-time Best of Austin winner, he's currently at work on two books and a play.