Because of “strong and dry wind,” Pacific Gas and Electric Company, or PG&E, may have to cut power from 30 California counties — including Alameda County — from Wednesday morning through Thursday afternoon.
According to a PG&E press release published Monday morning, the National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch for many regions in Northern California, leading it to consider “proactively turning off power for safety.”
“Due to the forecasted extreme weather conditions, PG&E is considering proactively turning off power for safety, and implementing a Public Safety Power Shutoff, across portions of approximately 30 northern, central, coastal and Bay Area counties,” according to the PG&E press release.
According to an article published by SFGate, significant winds are expected to blow from inland toward the ocean — making the region more prone to fire weather conditions. The gusts, also called Diablo winds, are expected to blow 15 to 25 mph, with some gusts reaching 45 mph.
In the meantime, PG&E intends to contact those who will experience a power outage via telephone. According to SFGate, these messages will also include the timeline for the shut-off.
According to SFGate, PG&E has encouraged residents of these areas to unplug and turn off appliances to prevent any potential power surges. It has also suggested people charge their phones ahead of time and ensure their flashlights have batteries.
SFGate’s article also added that ATM machines and gas stations may be out of service if the power is shut off.
The press release also states that PG&E will continue to monitor upcoming weather conditions and provide further information Monday afternoon.