PG&E warns up to 88,000 customers of possible power shutoff in Bay Area

PG&E issued a notice that up to 88,000 customers could be disconnected from electricity as early as Wednesday evening, citing a statewide fire-weather event that raises wildfire danger. The planned public safety power shutoff would affect 29 counties, including about 11,000 customers across Alameda, Contra Costa, Napa, Sonoma and Solano counties. National Weather Service meteorologist Joe Merchant said fire conditions are elevated, especially in the East Bay Hills and North Bay Mountains, but strong winds needed for red-flag warnings are unlikely.

PG&E spokesperson Tamar Sarkissian said the company is ready to act, working with more than 40 community resource centers in 23 counties to offer device charging, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and other essentials. Residents are urged to check online for their address and to prepare by charging devices and stocking freezers with ice packs. If implemented, this would be the sixth shutoff of the year, and PG&E is monitoring the situation with field weather stations and on-the-ground crews before deciding.