PG&E says it will likely shut off power in multiple Northern California counties Saturday, Sunday and Monday, activating its Public Safety Power Shutoff protocol as fire risk climbs. Strong Sierra winds, low humidity and dry fuels are behind the call. Saturday brings the heaviest winds, with sustained speeds of 20 to 30 miles per hour, gusts to 45, and ridgetop gusts up to 55. Sunday the winds weaken but shift northwest, pulling moisture out of the air and keeping fire danger high.
The county lists shift day by day. Saturday’s potential shutoffs cover El Dorado, Lassen, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra and Tehama counties. Sunday’s list grows to add Colusa, Glenn and Yolo. By Monday it narrows to Colusa, Glenn and Tehama. Outages tied to these events can last more than 24 hours, so the utility is urging residents in affected areas to plan accordingly. Sacramento itself isn’t on the list, but plenty of us have family, friends or weekend plans in the foothills.
If you’re in one of the listed counties, today is the day to get ready: charge phones and backup batteries, fill the gas tank, stock water and shelf-stable food, round up medications, and check on anyone who depends on powered medical equipment. A plan made now beats a scramble in the dark later.
Are you in one of the counties on the list this weekend, or do you have family up the hill? Let us know how you’re prepping.
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
