Power Restoration Underway For SDG&E Customers; More Shutoffs Possible

SAN DIEGO, CA — San Diego Gas and Electric was working to restore power Thursday to customers affected by public safety power shutoffs amid critical weather conditions.

As a result of improving weather conditions in some areas, SDG&E field employees were patrolling and inspecting power lines to restore power to customers in certain communities.

"Patrolling and inspecting power lines are the first steps in the restoration process after a PSPS," the utility company said in a news release. "Although inspections are underway, it can be difficult to predict how long an inspection may take, given the varied length of each power line, the terrain and whether aerial inspections are required. If damage is found, repairs must be made before power can be restored safely."

As of 11:30 a.m. Thursday, 2,337 customers remained without power due to public safety power shutoffs, according to the company's website.

SDG&E announced Monday that up to 64,866 customers could lose power this week to reduce wildfire risk due to low humidity and strong Santa Ana winds. A red flag warning was extended until 6 p.m. Friday for the county's mountains and valleys.

"Due to the dynamic nature of this week's weather, meteorologists continue to urge regional preparedness as a stronger wave of Santa Ana winds enters the San Diego region this evening, which could delay further patrols and result in additional public safety power shutoffs," SDG&E advised. "Additional public safety power shutoffs could be implemented as soon as tonight, including for those recently reenergized, and impact a similar footprint as earlier this week," SDG&E advised.

Community resource centers will remain open until 10 p.m. Thursday for impacted communities, according to SDG&E. The centers are equipped with wi-fi, as well as charging stations for phone and medical devices.