PG&E Cuts Power Amid Diablo Wind Warnings

Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) has initiated power shutoffs across 12 counties in Northern California due to the onset of strong 'diablo winds', which are known to increase wildfire risks in the autumn. Approximately 13,000 customers were left without electricity after the utility began cutting power Thursday evening, with forecasts indicating sustained winds of 35 mph and gusts potentially exceeding 65 mph. Red flag warnings have been issued by the National Weather Service for elevated fire danger that could last through the weekend, particularly affecting regions from the central coast to northern Shasta County. PG&E anticipates that up to 20,000 customers might experience temporary outages as the high-risk weather conditions continue. The phenomenon, which leads to extremely dry air and low humidity, is expected to be the most significant wind event of the year thus far. Similar targeted power shutoffs are also being considered in Southern California due to the anticipated Santa Ana winds.