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What tools can I use to maintain situational awareness about PSPS?

Submitted by Lawrence Hoi Yip on
Priority
3
FAQ Answer

Use our weather and fire monitoring tools to stay informed. 

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When does SCE turn off power for PSPS?

Submitted by Lawrence Hoi Yip on
Priority
2
FAQ Answer

During dangerous fire weather conditions, when strong winds, dry vegetation and low humidity are forecast, we start considering PSPS. Under these conditions, a fire could spread rapidly, posing a significant safety risk. PSPS reduces the risk of winds causing branches or other debris to come into contact with utility equipment and start a fire. 

PSPS decisions are based on real-time weather reports from pole-top weather stations on or adjacent to PSPS circuits. We primarily consider these factors and conditions when deenergizing a circuit or circuit segment: 

  • Strong winds
  • Low humidity
  • Dry vegetation that could serve as fuel
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How does PSPS forecasting work and when do I get notified about PSPS events?

Submitted by Lawrence Hoi Yip on
Priority
1
FAQ Answer

4-7 Days Ahead

When forecasts indicate extreme fire conditions, we begin predictive modeling to assess potential impact. Our weather awareness map shows counties of concern for PSPS up to seven days ahead. 

4 Days Ahead

We continue to refine predictive models. Incident responders are placed on alert. 

3 Days Ahead Notification 

When extreme fire conditions are forecast, we coordinate with the emergency management community, first responders and local government. 

We notify potentially affected customers and show affected areas on the Outage Map. PSPS areas are indicated with lines showing the potentially affected circuits. Not all PSPS events can be forecasted this far in advance. 

2 Days Ahead Notification 

As the forecast becomes more precise, we update the list of circuits that might be impacted. If weather conditions persist, impacted customers and public safety partners receive a notification confirming the PSPS event and timing. 

1 Day Ahead Notification 

When extreme fire conditions are imminent, we continue to coordinate with the emergency management community, first responders, local government and customers of possible PSPS. 

1-4 Hours Before Shutoff Notification 

If we estimate that power could be shut off within one to four hours, an expected shutoff notification will be sent to customers, when possible. Once customers receive this notification, power shutoffs could happen at any time until the end of the PSPS event. 

Power Shutoff Notification 

When wind speeds and fire conditions are about to reach or exceed predetermined thresholds, we notify the emergency management community, first responders, local government and customers when we shut off power. 

Before Power Restoration Notification 

When fire conditions subside and PSPS is no longer needed, field crews will check lines to make sure power can be safely restored. Customers are notified when line inspections begin. It typically takes up to eight hours for inspections to be completed for all deenergized lines or it might take more time if daylight is required by foot or helicopter patrols. 

Restoration Notification 

All customers notified about PSPS will 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.

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Do you offer backup battery solutions for customers?

Submitted by Lawrence Hoi Yip on
Priority
4
FAQ Answer

To be better prepared for PSPS and other emergency outages, we offer incentives through the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP). These systems work as backup batteries to power your home when an outage or PSPS occurs.

Customers in high fire risk areas or other qualifying communities may be eligible for resiliency incentives through SGIP. Customers who do not live in a high fire risk area or other qualifying communities can still apply for SGIP general market incentives. 

For more information, visit the SGIP Battery Storage for Residential Customers Fact Sheet

Visit the SCE Marketplace for portable power stations and generators. Portable power stations provide backup power for small devices and household appliances such as laptops, mobile phones, tablets and some internet routers. Portable generators provide backup power for larger household appliances and devices such as refrigerators, lighting, water pumps and garage doors. 

Find tips for using your generator safely.

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0

Why does my neighbor have power and I don’t?

Submitted by Lawrence Hoi Yip on
Priority
6
FAQ Answer

While some customers may not be experiencing high winds at their home or business, they may be served by a circuit which starts in or crosses a windy high fire risk area before reaching their address. As a result, one block or neighborhood may have power while others don’t. We do our best to reduce outage impacts by temporarily switching neighborhoods to nearby circuits, but this is not always possible. Additionally, since all circuits must be visually inspected by crews on the ground before restoration, not all circuits will be restored at the same time.

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What resources are available during PSPS and other emergency outages?

Submitted by Lawrence Hoi Yip on
Priority
2
FAQ Answer

SCE supports customers during PSPS and other large public safety events through Community Resource Centers and Community Crew Vehicles. During PSPS, visit the Outage Map for locations. Locations are usually posted up to a day before a projected PSPS outage. 

Services include information, light snacks and resiliency kits. Customers may charge their mobile devices and portable medical equipment. We also offer in-language support and accommodate customers with disabilities or other access and functional needs.

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