PG&E Prepares for Potential Power Shutoffs Affecting 12,200 Customers
PG&E is preparing for potential power shutoffs impacting around 12,200 customers across 17 Northern California counties this weekend due to forecasted high winds and low humidity, which elevate wildfire risks.
Sacramento Stockton Modesto, CA, October 8, 2026 — PG&E is anticipating the possibility of Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) this weekend, a measure aimed at preventing wildfires amid critical weather conditions. The utility company is preparing to de-energize power lines that could pose a fire risk.
The planned shutoffs could affect approximately 12,200 customers. These customers are located across 17 counties in Northern California. The decision to implement shutoffs will depend on real-time weather conditions and whether they meet the utility’s criteria for elevated wildfire risk.
The primary drivers for these preparations are forecasts indicating high winds and low humidity. These atmospheric conditions significantly increase the likelihood of wildfires igniting and spreading rapidly, particularly in vegetation-dry areas. PG&E monitors weather patterns closely to identify periods of extreme fire danger.
The specific counties that may experience these potential shutoffs include:
- Alameda
- Colusa
- Contra Costa
- Glenn
- Lake
- Marin
- Mendocino
- Napa
- Nevada
- Placer
- Sacramento
- Shasta
- Solano
- Sonoma
- Tehama
- Yolo
- Yuba
PG&E has stated that decisions regarding specific shutoff timing and duration are made on a case-by-case basis and are contingent upon evolving weather forecasts. The company typically provides advanced notice to affected customers when possible, but the dynamic nature of severe weather can sometimes limit this window. Customers are advised to have an emergency plan in place, including backup power sources if needed, and to stay informed through official PG&E communications.
The utility’s Public Safety Power Shutoff program is designed to mitigate the risk of its electrical equipment igniting wildfires during severe weather events. The program has been a key component of the company’s wildfire risk reduction strategy.
Story summarized from the original created by Brett Stover on fox40.com, see more information here.
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