Southern California Edison, a major power supplier to 5 million homes and businesses, has initiated proactive measures to safeguard against potential wildfire risks. The utility has started implementing Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) for certain customers in order to mitigate the threat of fire ignition from its electric system.
Currently, approximately 8,600 customers are affected by the PSPS in regions spanning across Los Angeles, Riverside, and Ventura Counties. These shutoffs are being carried out as a precautionary measure during periods of heightened fire danger due to extreme weather conditions.
With strong winds sweeping through parts of Southern California, Southern California Edison is evaluating the possibility of extending the shutoffs to an additional 400,000 residents. The utility emphasizes that PSPS is considered a last-resort strategy when weather forecasts predict high winds, dry vegetation, and low humidity levels that could contribute to the rapid spread of wildfires.
Explaining the rationale behind the PSPS, Southern California Edison stated, 'Under these conditions, a fire could spread rapidly. PSPS reduces the risk that winds could cause flying debris to hit our lines or damage our equipment and cause a fire.'
By proactively shutting off power in high-risk areas, Southern California Edison aims to minimize the chances of its infrastructure becoming a potential ignition source for wildfires. The utility's focus on public safety underscores the importance of preventive measures in safeguarding communities against the devastating impacts of wildfires.
