During an ice storm, heavy ice can build up on power lines, causing the lines to sag and break under the weight. If an ice storm is severe, it’s not uncommon for numerous power lines to break, and it can take a utility company a day or longer to repair them all. f high waters flood an electrical sub-stations (where electricity is distributed to various neighborhoods), the utility company will shut down the power to prevent damage to their equipment, and if the electricity to your home runs through that substation, you’ll be out of luck until the utility company can safely restore service. Fortunately, most substations are located on higher ground that’s unlikely to flood.