San Diego Gas & Electric began public safety power shutoffs again on Tuesday in some parts of San Diego County as a precaution to help reduce wildfires.
The shutoffs are currently projected to end by Wednesday at 6 p.m.
“Due to a new round of Santa Ana winds and elevated fire weather conditions impacting our region this week, San Diego Gas & Electric has initiated Public Safety Power Shutoffs in certain communities to help reduce wildfire risk and protect public safety,” SDG&E said in a news release.
Impacted communities include Alpine, Boulevard, Campo, Lakeside and Santee. A list of all the affected communities is available here. A map of current power outages can be found at this link.
Officials added that “Because of the dynamic weather situation and extended wind forecast, customers are urged to be prepared for the possibility of prolonged or more than one (safety shutoff).”
SDG&E has also opened Community Resource Centers to assist affected communities. They offer water, ice, snacks and internet access, as well as phone and medical device charging. They will remain open for customers until weather conditions improve.
A list of active Community Resource Center locations and their hours of operation can be found here.
“Public Safety Power Shutoffs are approved by state regulators as an important safety tool of last resort to mitigate fire risk during dangerous weather conditions,” SDG&E said.
Officials said that they were monitoring the high winds and severe wildfire conditions around the clock and will continue the temporary power shutoffs as conditions warrant.
They also said to never approach damaged infrastructure or downed power lines. Anyone who sees this is asked to report it by calling 911 or SGD&E’s call center at (800) 411-7343.
Other impacts from the high winds include continued school closures in East County and parts of the backcountry. Due to winds and potential power outages, schools in the Mountain Empire Unified School District will be closed Wednesday, along with Lakeside Farms Elementary and DREAM Academy in Lakeside Union School District.
City News Service contributed to this report.
Updated 6:45 p.m. Jan. 14, 2025
