California utilities have shut off power to over 62,000 customers to prevent wildfires as dry winds sweep across the state. PG&E Corp. is responsible for cutting power to about 60,000 customers in seven counties, and they may turn off more if conditions worsen. Southern California Edison Co. has also de-energized lines for nearly 2,400 customers in three counties.
The U.S. Storm Prediction Center warns that hot, dry conditions in the San Joaquin Valley increase the risk of wildfires if any sparks ignite. A low-pressure system in the Pacific Northwest is contributing to these dry winds, according to forecaster Bryan Jackson from the U.S. Weather Prediction Center.
Red flag fire warnings are in effect for parts of California’s Sierra Nevada range and extend to many areas in Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico. While most of California is under elevated fire conditions, not many red flag warnings have been issued yet.
Humidity levels have dropped as low as 4%, but they are expected to rise to between 15% and 35% depending on the elevation, according to the National Weather Service. They also noted that while temperatures will fall over the weekend, winds will continue to be a concern.
Over the last ten years, power companies in the western U.S. and Hawaii have faced numerous lawsuits blaming their equipment for causing devastating fires. To mitigate this risk, many utilities, especially in California, have begun cutting power during high fire risk periods to prevent electrical lines from igniting fires.
As the situation develops, residents are urged to stay informed and prepared for potential power outages and fire hazards.