As the Bay Area braces itself for a heatwave with projections of temperatures soaring into triple digits, Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) is taking precautionary steps that may result in power outages across multiple counties. According to a statement obtained by KTVU, public safety power shutoffs are planned this week in anticipation of the extreme weather conditions, with an excessive heat watch set to go into effect on Tuesday.
The shutoff strategy is designed to quickly reduce the risk of wildfires, in which high temperatures and dry conditions can significantly escalate. PG&E has identified for potential shutdown Napa and Solano counties within the Bay Area and other regions, including Lake, Shasta, Yolo, and counties in the Sacramento Valley, as detailed in reports from PG&E's alert system. While specific addresses and maps will be provided closer to the potential shutoffs, residents are advised to stay informed and prepare for the likelihood of losing power.
In a press release via KRON4, PG&E warned that approximately 12,000 customers across eight counties and two tribal governments may be affected by the shutoffs. The proactive move is "to reduce the risk of wildfire from energized powerlines," PG&E emphasized. This temporary measure, widely known as a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), could begin as early as Tuesday morning and extend through Wednesday. However, officials have not stated the exact duration of the expected outages.
Moreover, the National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning, which is set to remain effective from Tuesday morning through Friday evening. There is a "high to very high risk" of heat-related impacts on health for most residents during this period, as reported by KRON4. While some areas of San Francisco and the Peninsula face a Heat Advisory with slightly lower temperatures ranging from the lower 80s to mid-90s, inland areas and the North Bay are expected to hit the upper 90s to 110 degrees.
PG&E has urged residents in the forecasted shutoff areas to prepare by revisiting their emergency plans and ensuring they have adequate supplies and resources to safely navigate potential power outages.
