PG&E may cut power across the North State again starting Wednesday as gusty winds and dry conditions are expected to raise fire risk.
Over 3,000 customers in Butte County could lose power, according to the PG&E forecast.
The shutoffs could run into Saturday and affect parts of Magalia, Concow, Berry Creek and the south and east edges of Paradise.
Parts of Shasta, Tehama and Plumas counties are also at risk.
Customers canlook up their address on PG&E's website to check for shutoff updates.
Planned safety power shutoffs in Paradise
Paradise Mayor Steve Crowder said he was surprised by the possible public safety power shutoffs (PSPS) since – after the 2018 Camp Fire – over 90% of the town’s power lines have been put underground.
“What was explained to me originally was that once we were undergrounded, we should not have PSPSs at all,” Crowder said.
He said the town hasn’t had a PSPS since 2020.
PG&E spokesperson Paul Moreno told NSPR that while most of the town’s lines are buried, some are still above ground. That means shutoffs are still possible.
“Paradise, fortunately, hasn't had one in several years, but they are in scope for this one,” he said. “We have been undergrounding power lines throughout the community. We are not yet finished, so there will be customers within Paradise that will likely be impacted should we call a public safety power shutoff event this week.”
How to prepare
Moreno said PG&E tries to alert people to possible shutoffs at least two days in advance.
He recommended that people in at-risk areas get dry ice to keep their food and medicine cool. He also recommended keeping portable devices like phones charged.
If possible, arranging a backup energy source like a generator can also help, Moreno said.
People who need help before or during the outage can call 211.
“We do partner with various agencies and food banks to help people who’ve been impacted by public safety power shutoffs,” he said. “These can include portable batteries for those who need power for medical devices.”
