PG&E Warns of Potential Power Shutoffs for 12,200 California Customers Amidst High Winds
The utility is considering preemptive power outages in 17 counties from Friday to Monday to mitigate wildfire risks.
Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) has alerted approximately 12,200 customers across 17 counties in Central and Northern California to the possibility of preemptive power shutoffs. These potential Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) are scheduled to begin Friday, October 9, and could extend through Monday, October 12, as the region braces for strong winds and low humidity.
The utility initiated these advanced customer notifications as a measure to reduce the risk of wildfires that could be sparked by electrical equipment. The forecast indicates gusty winds with speeds ranging from 30 to 45 mph, and potential peak winds of 55 mph in the Northern Sierra. These conditions, combined with low humidity, elevate the danger of fire ignition.
Customers in affected areas, including Napa, Yolo, Tehama, Solano, Shasta, San Luis Obispo, Fresno, Kings, Merced, Kern, San Joaquin, Alameda, and San Benito counties, have been notified of the potential disruptions. PG&E stated that the decision to implement power shutoffs is not taken lightly and is a critical step in wildfire prevention efforts.
The National Weather Service in Sacramento has also cautioned about the increased wildfire risk, citing north winds of 25-35 mph and low humidity that could lead to "potential elevated fire conditions." In the San Joaquin Valley, northwest winds are expected to gust up to 15 mph by Sunday night.
PG&E is actively monitoring weather conditions and will provide updates as the forecast evolves. The company is also coordinating with local authorities to ensure resources are available. Following this period of high winds, cooler temperatures are anticipated by early next week for the Central Valley and Northern California, offering some relief after recent high temperatures.