power outages

PG&E public safety power shutoffs impact 220 in the East Bay

Utility cites dry conditions, heat and gusty onshore winds raising the risk of brush fire starts

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PG&E conducted power shutoffs in the inland East Bay on Saturday due to the heat and fire danger.

The utility company said close to 220 customers across the region are impacted.

About 96 custimers are impacted in Alameda County, 62 in Contra Costa County and 56 in San Joaquin County.

"For the remaining customers who had received notices about the potential PSPS this weekend, their power has not been shut off. PG&E expects to have a weather “all clear” tonight around 8:00 p.m., at which point we will begin patrols, assess for any damage, make repairs and restore service for impacted customers," PG&E said.

In a post on social media, the utility said it likely would have to initiate its public safety power shutoffs with daytime highs approaching or surpassing triple digits in some East Bay areas.

Dry conditions combined with gusty onshore winds expected later Saturday and into Sunday morning raise the risk of brush fires ingiting, PG&E said.

The company said it is observing other areas in Alameda, Contra Costa and San Joaquin County, in addition to Fresno, Merced and San Benito counties.

The PSPS program is designed to lower the fire risk by powering down electrical lines in designated areas.

All customers impacted are expected to have power come Sunday morning.

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