Around 2,600 people in the San Diego area remained without power Wednesday afternoon as part of ongoing public safety power shutoffs, while San Diego Gas & Electric crews patrol back-country lines to restore some areas.
The utility began the shutoffs Tuesday as a precaution to avoid potential wildfires in areas such as Alpine, Boulevard, Campo, Julian and the Campo, La Posta, Manzanita, Santa Ysabel and Viejas reservations. A map of impacted area is available at sdge.com/ready.
A red flag warning remained active in the area, with Santa Ana winds expected to continue through at least 6 p.m. Wednesday.
"Patrolling and inspecting power lines are the first steps in the restoration process after a PSPS," a statement from the utility company said. "Although inspections are underway, it can be difficult to predict how long an inspection may take, given the varied length of each power line, the terrain and whether aerial inspections are required. If damage is found, repairs must be made before power can be restored safely."
Officials said emergency operations centers and SDG&E meteorologists were monitoring the high winds and severe wildfire conditions around the clock and will continue to de-energize equipment for safety as conditions warrant.
Community resource centers have opened to assist affected residents. Centers have wi-fi available, along with phone and medical-device charging, and will remain open for customers until conditions improve.
A list of community resource center locations and their hours can be found at sdge.com/ready.
"Public Safety Power Shutoffs are approved by state regulators as an important safety tool of last resort to mitigate fire risk during dangerous weather conditions," SDG&E said.
Officials urged the public to never approach damaged infrastructure or downed power lines. People were advised to report them instead by calling 911 or SGD&E's call center at 800-411-7343.
How to prepare for a power outage
- Build an emergency kit: Include flashlights, extra batteries, nonperishable food (this includes packaged snacks and bottled water and juices) and a first-aid kit.
- Phones and electronics: Keep phones that don't require electricity along with a portable battery-powered radio, a wind-up or battery-operated clock and manual can opener.
- For major appliances: Turn off and unplug major appliances like your A/C and refrigerator, electronics and devices to prevent damage or unexpected starts when power is restored, but leave one light on to signal when power returns.
- For seniors: Prepare essential items like wheelchair batteries, oxygen, medications and service animal food. List medical devices with instructions.
- Create a network: Notify and alert neighbors, relatives, friends and co-workers to aid you should there be an emergency.
- Keep emergency contacts handy: Add SDG&E’s emergency phone number (800) 411-SDGE (7343) for residents and (800) 611-SDGE (7343).
To learn more about preparing for a power outage, visit this comprehensive guide from the City of San Diego: Power Outage Prep Tips or go to SDG&E resource page.
