#USA #Oakland #Pacific Gas and Electric #Northern California #Storm Preparations

PG&E Mobilizes Resources for Heavy Storm in Northern California

As Northern California braces for a significant winter storm, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is proactively positioning crews and essential resources throughout its service area. The storm, expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds, prompted PG&E to implement a comprehensive response strategy to ensure the safety and efficiency of their operations.

Preparing for Adverse Weather Conditions

The National Weather Service has issued various advisories and warnings across the territory, indicating severe weather will begin affecting the northern regions of PG&E's service area by Friday, with conditions worsening across central and southern areas through Saturday. According to Evan Duffey, a PG&E meteorologist, this swiftly moving storm will deliver not only heavy precipitation but also damaging winds, leading to potential power outages.

To enhance readiness, PG&E has leveraged advanced storm outage prediction models that utilize artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze potential storm impacts. This technology aids in identifying where the strongest winds might occur, enabling the company to pre-assign crews and equipment to areas likely to be affected.

“We have closely coordinated with our Operations teams to determine projected storm impacts and ensure we can respond effectively,” stated Peter Kenny, senior vice president of Electric Operations at PG&E.

Resources and Personnel Ready to Respond

To prepare for potential damage, PG&E has strategically pre-staged critical infrastructure, including power poles, transformers, and lines, at various yards throughout the area. This effort aims to facilitate quick repairs and minimize the duration of power outages for its customers.

In addition to physical resources, a comprehensive team of electric crews, troublemen, distribution line technicians, and system inspectors stand ready. These personnel will serve as the utility's first responders, ensuring public safety by monitoring electric incidents and prioritizing swift responses.

Keeping Customers Informed

In the event of an outage, PG&E encourages customers to stay updated through its online outage center, where they can access real-time information about the status of repairs and estimated restoration times. For those without a PG&E account, the portal allows them to sign up for notifications via text, email, or phone.

Moreover, PG&E commits to providing daily updates about storm response efforts through its newsletter, PGE Currents.

Storm Safety Recommendations

As PG&E takes measures to prepare for the storm, customers are urged to adopt safety precautions as well. Here are some essential safety tips:

• - Avoid downed wires: If you encounter a fallen power line, treat it as hazardous and avoid contact, keeping children and pets away. Report it immediately to emergency services and PG&E.
• - Use generators properly: Ensure that standby generators are installed by qualified professionals and are used in well-ventilated spaces to avoid dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
• - Utilize battery-operated lights: During outages, opt for flashlights instead of candles to reduce fire risks. Keep batteries handy for emergencies.
• - Prepare for communication disruptions: Have a traditional phone ready in case your cordless telephone system fails due to power loss.
• - Stock up on water and ice: Prepare by freezing containers of water to keep perishables safe during outages.
• - Secure outdoor items: Strong winds could transform outdoor furniture into projectiles, so ensure they are safe and secure.
• - Unplug appliances: To prevent potential overloads and hazards, unplug electronics until power restoration is confirmed.

For additional tips and safety information, customers can refer to the company's Safety and Preparedness resources.

Conclusion

PG&E’s proactive measures demonstrate its commitment to customer safety and system reliability amid severe weather forecasts. With crews ready and resources strategically positioned, the utility aims to respond swiftly and effectively to any challenges posed by the storm, underscoring its dedication to the communities it serves.