SDG&E power shutoffs possible after Red Flag Warning issued for San Diego communities

Summary

A red flag warning and wind advisory are set to affect San Diego County, with winds reaching up to 60 MPH, creating critical fire danger in the mountains and inland valleys. Cal Fire is on high alert, bringing extra resources to prepare for dangerous conditions, including the potential for power shutoffs affecting over 64,000 SDG&E customers. Local residents are urged to stay home, secure outdoor items, and prepare emergency kits with essentials like water, food, and batteries. The event is expected to be a widespread and significant Santa Ana wind event, potentially impacting the entire county.

Takeaways

• 😀 Red flag warnings and potential power shutoffs are coming to the mountains and other areas like La Mesa due to high wind risks.
• 😀 La Mesa resident Lanny Barnes is preparing for the unexpected, encouraging people to stay off the roads and remain home during the wind advisory.
• 😀 A red flag warning will start at 4 a.m. on Wednesday and last until 6 p.m. Thursday, covering mountains and inland valleys.
• 😀 A countywide wind advisory is set for 4 p.m. Tuesday to 6 p.m. Wednesday, with winds potentially reaching up to 60 mph.
• 😀 San Diego is entering a critical fire danger period with significant risks due to strong, widespread winds.
• 😀 Cal Fire is ramping up preparedness by bringing in extra resources, including fire engines, dozers, hand crews, and aircraft.
• 😀 This wind event is expected to be more severe and widespread than the Santa Ana winds experienced last month.
• 😀 Unlike previous Santa Ana events, this one will affect the entire county, not just specific valleys and passes.
• 😀 SDG&E has notified over 64,000 customers about potential public safety power shutoffs starting as soon as Tuesday.
• 😀 Public safety power shutoffs are a last resort to prevent wildfires and other dangers from high winds, such as fallen trees and airborne objects.
• 😀 Cal Fire recommends residents prepare an emergency go-bag with essentials like water, food, clothes, batteries, and a flashlight, along with using local alert apps.

Q & A

What is the significance of the red flag warning and potential power shutoffs in the area?

The red flag warning and power shutoffs indicate critical wildfire risk due to high winds, particularly in mountainous and inland valley areas. The potential shutoffs aim to prevent wildfires caused by wind-driven sparks, and the warning signals the need for heightened awareness and preparation.

Why is La Mesa being mentioned in the context of the wind advisory?

La Mesa is mentioned because, although it's not typically impacted by strong winds like the mountains or inland valleys, this event will affect areas including La Mesa. Residents there are preparing for the unexpected as the wind advisory extends to their region.

What are the expected wind speeds in the area during the advisory period?

Winds are expected to reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour (MPH) during the advisory period, creating a heightened risk for wildfires and wind damage.

What specific steps is Cal Fire taking to prepare for the event?

Cal Fire is preparing by bringing in extra fire engines, dozers, and hand crews. They are also ensuring that all available aircraft are ready statewide and are relocating resources from Northern California to help manage the risk.

How does this event differ from the winds experienced last month?

This event is expected to be more intense, with winds that are faster and more widespread than the previous month's winds. It will not only affect valleys and passes but will cover the entire county, making it a significant event.

Why has SDG&E issued notifications to over 64,000 customers?

SDG&E has notified over 64,000 customers because power shutoffs may be necessary due to the elevated risk of wildfires and wind-related hazards. These shutoffs are a precautionary measure to protect the public.

What is the purpose of public safety power shutoffs?

Public safety power shutoffs are implemented as a last resort to reduce the risk of wildfires. They are intended to prevent power lines from sparking fires in extreme wind conditions.

What specific dangers are associated with the high winds in this scenario?

The high winds can cause large trees to be blown over, create airborne debris, and lead to fire hazards from downed power lines or other wind-related damages. Anything not securely anchored, such as deck furniture, could become dangerous projectiles.

What preparations does Cal Fire recommend residents make?

Cal Fire recommends that residents have an emergency 'go bag' containing extra water, food, clothing, batteries, a flashlight, and other essentials in case of evacuation or extended power outages.

What apps can help residents stay informed during this event?

Residents can use the 'Alert San Diego' and 'Genesis Protect' apps to stay updated on emergency alerts, evacuation orders, and other critical information during this event.