Public Safety Power Shutoffs: What to expect when the power Is out

Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) are a precautionary measure used to reduce wildfire risk during extreme weather conditions. When strong winds and dry weather increase wildfire danger, SDG&E may temporarily turn off power in certain areas to prevent wind-blown debris from striking powerlines and causing sparks or fires. This approach is careful and targeted, guided by data-driven decision-making and real-time conditions.

Why power may be off at one home but not another

Power lines are organized into circuits, and each circuit may experience different levels of severe wind and wildfire risk based on its location. This means one side of a street may remain energized while the other side, connected to a separate circuit, needs to be powered down.

Restoring power safely

During a shutoff, SDG&E crews are in the field monitoring conditions, patrolling lines for damage or debris, and preparing for restoration as soon as it’s safe. Outages can last several hours or, in some cases, multiple days, depending entirely on the weather.

Once weather conditions improve and winds subside, SDG&E inspects every mile of de-energized line before turning the power back on. This final check confirms that conditions are safe for restoring power without risk of wildfire. The top priority is always the safety of our employees and customers, even if restoration takes a little more time.

“During a shutoff, SDG&E crews are in the field monitoring conditions and preparing for restoration as soon as it’s safe.”

Why preparation matters

PSPS can be inconvenient and disruptive, but they remain a vital tool for reducing wildfire danger. By understanding how Public Safety Power Shutoffs work, customers can be better prepared when they occur. What can you do?

• Update your contact information at sdge.com/notifications.
• Download the Alerts by SDGE app for real-time PSPS updates and safety tips.
• Create an emergency plan and assemble a safety kit so everyone knows where to go and what to do in case of an emergency.

Learn more about PSPS and how SDG&E is taking steps to protect our communities by downloading their Wildfire Safety Newsletter at sdge.com/PSPS

 The news and editorial staff of The San Diego Union-Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.