Residents of Calabasas, a wealthy Southern California community, are expressing anger and frustration over planned power outages scheduled to occur during a severe heat wave. Southern California Edison (SCE) intends to cut electricity to more than 500 customers overnight on Friday and Saturday to conduct infrastructure upgrades aimed at reducing wildfire risks.
Temperatures in the region are forecast to reach the mid-90s through the weekend, with some nearby areas potentially exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Overnight lows are expected to remain in the upper 60s, raising concerns about indoor temperatures in homes without air conditioning. Residents worry about the impact of the outages on their comfort and safety during the extreme heat.
“On a heat wave. It’s horrible, it’s unbearable,” resident Jonathan Bobbitt told CBS Los Angeles, describing how his home becomes difficult to endure without power. “Our house gets so hot. It’s harder to sleep when … it’s 80, 90 degrees in your house.”
SCE stated that customers were notified about the planned outages approximately two weeks in advance. The utility company emphasized that the work cannot be postponed, as crews are scheduled to upgrade equipment crucial for mitigating wildfire hazards and preventing future power interruptions. The initial plan for outages to begin at 7 p.m. was adjusted to 9 p.m. following public outcry.
Calabasas Mayor James Bozajian indicated that the change in timing likely resulted from significant public pushback. "They must have gotten quite a bit of pushback," Bozajian told CBS, commenting on the unusual adjustment. He noted that City Hall received numerous complaints from residents concerned about losing power during extreme weather, particularly those with limited mobility.
"Elderly and some people, maybe with disabilities, they have limited ability to get out of the house or to go somewhere else, or to take alternatives," Bozajian said. He added that the city is preparing plans to assist vulnerable residents who may need a place to cool off during the scheduled outages.
Many residents acknowledged the necessity of upgrading the electrical system for public safety but questioned the timing of the work. "I just think that there could be better planning for this," one resident commented. "It’s called reschedule the entire thing, not just reschedule the hours."
Calabasas is known as one of California's most affluent enclaves, with a population that includes celebrities and high-profile professionals. Median home values in the area frequently surpass $1.5 million, with many properties selling for several million dollars.