Malibu residents are on edge as Southern California Edison (SCE) announces a potential Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) this weekend due to heightened fire risks. The SCE may cut power from Topanga Canyon to Malibu Pier and from Point Dume to Point Mugu, including up Malibu Canyon, areas that are facing a severe threat from expected Santa Ana winds coupled with extremely low humidity levels. The shutoff, which targets the Serra, Nicholas, and Galahad circuits, is a precautionary measure against potential wildfires and could last from midnight on Saturday, December 9, through 3:00 PM on Sunday, December 10.
According to Malibu's official announcement, the National Weather Service has forecast risky fire conditions continuing from Thursday, December 7 through Sunday, December 10; these conditions include gusts reaching 35–40 mph and very low humidity levels, elevating the region to Red Flag fire status over the weekend. Malibu locals are advised to get ready for the likelihood of power outages, the risk of fire, and possible evacuations; moreover, residents should be cautious of hazardous road conditions from debris and signaling equipment that may not function properly.
Residents have been urged to undertake safety precautions such as securing outdoor furniture, moving flammable items away from their homes, and checking on vulnerable neighbors. The advisories are particularly pressing for seniors, those with disabilities, and large animal owners, who have been encouraged to consider leaving before the situation escalates. Information regarding how to manually open electric gates and garage doors during power cuts is being shared to ensure residents are not trapped in their homes should an evacuation become necessary.
Once conditions are deemed safe, SCE will inspect power lines before restoring electricity, a process that may take several hours after the winds have subsided. This insight comes from the official communications of the city, ensuring residents that power return is contingent upon thorough safety checks. The City of Malibu and the LA County Fire Department are keeping a close watch on the evolving circumstances, with updates being regularly relayed through various channels, including the city's website, social media platforms, and an Emergency and Traffic Hotline, which can be reached at 310-456-9982.
For additional details on the potential power shutoffs and to stay informed about the latest weather developments affecting the area, Malibu residents can visit SCE's PSPS information website, access LA County's power outage preparedness guide, view local circuit maps for Malibu's PSPS, and get updated weather information from NWS LA/Oxnard.
