Planned PG&E Power Outages: Check If Your Bay Area City Is Affected

Michael

3 min read

Post on Jun 20, 2025

4.3

Share

Planned PG&E Power Outages: Check if Your Bay Area City is Affected

Rolling blackouts are back? Find out if your Bay Area home will be impacted by planned PG&E power outages.

The Bay Area braces itself once again for planned power outages as Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) continues its proactive wildfire prevention efforts. These scheduled outages, while inconvenient, are designed to minimize the risk of wildfires sparked by downed power lines, a significant concern during California's dry summer and fall months. Knowing whether your city is affected is crucial, so let's dive into how to check and what you can do to prepare.

How to Check if Your City is Affected:

The most reliable way to determine if your Bay Area community faces a planned PG&E power shutoff is by checking PG&E's official website. Their power outage map is updated regularly and provides detailed information about affected areas, scheduled outage times, and estimated restoration times.

• Visit the PG&E website: Go directly to the source! PG&E's website provides the most up-to-date information. (Replace this bracketed link with the actual, current link).
• Enter your address: Simply enter your full address into the search bar on the outage map. The map will then visually show you whether your location is included in a planned outage.
• Sign up for alerts: Proactive preparation is key. PG&E offers email and text alerts to notify customers about impending outages. Sign up for these alerts on their website to receive timely warnings.

What to Do if Your City is Affected:

If your area is scheduled for a power outage, preparation is paramount. Here are some crucial steps to take:

• Charge your devices: Fully charge all your electronic devices, including phones, laptops, and tablets.
• Gather essential supplies: Stock up on flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, and any necessary medications. Consider a portable power bank for your phone.
• Prepare for food safety: If the outage is expected to last several hours, consider how you'll keep refrigerated food safe. A cooler with ice packs can help.
• Unplug electronics: To protect your appliances from power surges, unplug sensitive electronics before the outage begins.
• Stay informed: Regularly check PG&E's website for updates on the outage schedule and restoration times.

Beyond the Official Map: Staying Informed in the Bay Area

While PG&E's website is your primary resource, staying informed through other channels can be beneficial. Local news stations often provide updates on planned outages, and many Bay Area cities have their own emergency alert systems. Check your city's website or social media pages for additional information.

Understanding PG&E's Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) Program

These planned outages are part of PG&E's Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) program, implemented to mitigate the risk of wildfires. While inconvenient, the program is designed to protect communities and prevent devastating wildfires. Learn more about the PSPS program on the PG&E website. (Replace this bracketed link with the actual, current link).

Conclusion:

Planned power outages in the Bay Area are a reality, particularly during the dry season. By proactively checking PG&E's outage map and taking necessary precautions, you can minimize the disruption and ensure your safety and preparedness. Stay informed, stay safe, and stay connected!