Montanans Might Lose Internet Due To Storm. What Can You Do?

Spectrum, one of the biggest, if not the biggest internet and cable providers in Montana sent out a warning of possible service outages due to the incoming hazardous weather.

As I shoveled my sidewalk for the 3rd time today, my phone received a notification from my internet provider, Spectrum. Most of you likely received the same notice as they are a huge internet and cable provider in Montana. The text said this warning: "We're preparing for potential outages during the storm. If you lose power, call your utility company". 

Well, this can't be good. I can't remember the last time a heavy winter storm knocked out the internet and/or power. We've all had our internet service taken offline for a bit due to random maintenance, but having it out for an unknown amount of time can be a bit scary. The only bonus is if you work remotely and rely on your internet to work. If so, you get an unscheduled day off.

If you're like me and you absolutely cannot live without the internet, remember you can most likely use your smartphone as a hotspot to attach other devices like your laptop. Most of your streaming services can be used right from your smartphone as well, so you won't be completely bored.  Here comes the big warning, however. If your home does lose power, it's not a good idea to drain your phone battery while watching Netflix or cruising Instagram. You don't want to be without it in case there is an emergency. Also, it's a good idea to make sure you have unlimited data if you plan to use it as the main source of internet access if you lose your home service. Those extra data charges can and will cost you big time if you go over.

Spectrum suggests signing into your account (which you can do from your phone if you lose home service) to keep up with any outages in your area. You can see if it's due to the storm or just a simple maintenance issue.