Red Flag Warning Triggers Power Shutoffs for Thousands Across Southern California

Thousands of Southern California residents are already without electricity as dangerous Santa Ana winds and hot, dry conditions increase the risk of wildfires across the region.

A Red Flag Warning is in effect for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties through 8 p.m. Saturday, according to the National Weather Service. Southern California Edison (SCE) has begun implementing Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) as a precaution to reduce the risk of electrical equipment sparking a wildfire.

As of 11 a.m. Thursday, more than 20,000 customers across Los Angeles, Ventura and Kern counties were experiencing power shutoffs. Another 250,000 or more customers across several counties could potentially lose electricity.

SCE says the temporary outages are necessary when dangerous weather conditions create an increased wildfire threat.

“We absolutely know that these public safety power shutoffs significantly impact our customers’ lives, and losing power any day is a hardship. But we do it for safety reasons,” an SCE spokesperson told KTLA.

Where Are Power Shutoffs Happening?

Here is the breakdown of current outages and areas where additional shutoffs are being considered, based on figures reported at 11 a.m. Thursday.

Current Public Safety Power Shutoffs:

• Los Angeles County: 7,778 customers

• Ventura County: 9,241 customers

• Kern County: 3,859 customers

Additional Shutoffs Being Considered:

• Los Angeles County: 87,981 customers

• Ventura County: 118,832 customers

• Kern County: 18,703 customers

• Santa Barbara County: 12,951 customers

• Tulare County: 1,279 customers

• Fresno County: 26 customers

• Madera County: 16 customers

The numbers could change as weather conditions evolve and utility crews continue monitoring the wildfire threat.

Strong Santa Ana Winds Could Make Conditions Worse

The National Weather Service is forecasting hot, dry weather and Santa Ana winds, with mountain wind gusts potentially reaching 70 mph.

The strongest winds and hottest temperatures, with highs in the upper 80s and 90s, are expected Thursday and Friday. These conditions can rapidly increase the risk of wildfires, particularly in areas with dry vegetation.

How to Check If Your Power Could Be Shut Off

Southern California Edison customers can check their potential outage status and sign up for alerts through the utility's Public Safety Power Shutoff website.

Residents in areas under consideration for shutoffs should prepare for a possible loss of electricity by charging phones and backup batteries, keeping flashlights handy, and making plans for any essential medical equipment that requires power.

Keep in mind that power may not come back on immediately after the winds die down. SCE warns that restoration can take more than eight hours after dangerous winds subside because crews must inspect power lines and electrical equipment to ensure it is safe to restore service.

With dangerous fire weather expected to continue, Southern California residents are encouraged to monitor local alerts, check their utility status and prepare for possible outages.