How does PSPS forecasting work and when do I get notified about PSPS events?

SCE monitors weather and fire risk conditions continuously. When conditions may lead to a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), we begin sending notifications up to three days in advance.

Because forecasts can change, the timing of notifications and the areas affected may also change. SCE provides updates before, during and after a PSPS event so you can stay informed and prepare.

Here’s what to expect:

Typical notification timing includes:

4-7 Days Ahead

When forecasts indicate fire weather conditions, we begin predictive modeling to assess potential impact. Customers can visit our PSPS Weather Dashboard to view how counties in our service area could be affected by fire weather conditions — up to seven days in advance.

3 Days Ahead Notification  

When fire weather conditions are forecast, SCE coordinates with emergency management agencies, first responders and local governments.

SCE notifies customers who may be affected and displays potential impact areas on the Outage Map. These areas appear as polygons showing circuits that may be affected.

2 Days Ahead Notification  

As the forecast becomes more precise, we refine the list of circuits that may be affected. If conditions persist, potentially impacted customers and public safety partners receive a notification confirming the PSPS and expected timing.  

1 Day Ahead Notification  

When fire conditions are likely, SCE continues to refine impacted circuits and estimated outage timing.

1-4 Hours Before Shutoff Notification  

If we estimate that power could be shutoff within one to four hours, SCE sends an expected shutoff notification to customers and public safety partners, when possible. After this notice, power shutoffs may occur at any time during the PSPS event.

Power Shutoff Notification  

When wind speeds and fire conditions are about to reach or exceed predetermined thresholds, we notify public safety partners and customers when we shut off power.  

Before Power Restoration Notification  

When conditions improve and PSPS is no longer needed, crews inspect power lines to ensure it is safe to restore service.

SCE notifies customers when inspections begin. Inspections typically take up to eight hours but may take longer if daylight is required for ground or aerial patrols (helicopter or drone).

Restoration Notification  

All customers notified about PSPS receive a final notification when their power has been restored or when the event has ended.

Other notifications may occur as needed to keep customers informed.

Disclaimer: Our advance forecasts might not capture the real-time onset of strong winds or other dangerous fire conditions. In these cases, there might be little to no notice before power is shut off for PSPS. After a shutoff, customers will be notified as soon as possible and can check the Outage Map to confirm it is due to PSPS.