A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is a wildfire mitigation tool that is used by utility companies to limit the risk of wildfire ignition due to downed equipment or debris. This is a common mitigation practice used during hot, dry, and windy conditions when fire risk is high. The intention behind a PSPS is to keep our communities safe.
Issuing a PSPS is not our first choice, and is not something that we will do lightly. LPEA will always work to restore power to our affected members as quickly as is safely possible.
When will LPEA initiate a PSPS?
There are several factors we take into consideration when evaluating the need for a PSPS:
- Red Flag Warnings issued by the National Weather Service in LPEA’s service territory
- Sustained winds along with low humidity
- Public safety concerns
- Availability of local resources to combat potential wildfires
- Existing wildfires encroaching on LPEA territory and equipment
How will LPEA communicate with members before, during, and after a PSPS event?
As we monitor extreme weather conditions and forecasts, we will do our best to notify and update our members.
How long will a PSPS Last?
Power will remain out for as long as extreme and dangerous conditions pose a potential fire risk. Depending on the severity of the weather and other factors, power outages could last from several hours to multiple days.
Once conditions are safe, LPEA crews will be required to visually patrol the power lines in the affected areas to ensure they are free from damage and can be safely reenergized. This process will be performed in stages, working from the substation out to the end of the lines, reenergizing as each section is deemed safe to do so.
If you experience an emergency during an outage, please call 911.
