San Diego Gas & Electric announced it is taking proactive steps to prepare for the 12th atmospheric river storm drenching the San Diego County region that is expected to last through early Thursday.
The region will experience cold rain, gusty winds, and potentially damaging floods during its 12th atmospheric river of the wet season. According to the Integrated Drought Information System, the wet season typically lasts from October to April.
In anticipation of this, SDG&E said it is increasing the number of field crews and equipment available to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. The utility said its meteorology team is monitoring the weather conditions to help provide situational awareness to front-line crews who are working to maintain the infrastructure that serves communities.
SDG&E recommended the following safety tips to help keep the region safe:
- Always assume it is energized and stay away. Never touch a downed power line or damaged electrical equipment.
- Call 9-1-1 and SDG&E at (800) 411-SDGE (7343) to report it.
- If a person has come into contact with a power line, do not touch them. Call 9-1-1 immediately.
- Secure any loose outdoor items like umbrellas, patio furniture, and garbage bins to prevent them from flying away and damaging power lines.
- Drive safely. During storm conditions, the number of cars hitting transformers or power poles increases, so be sure to slow down and allow more time for braking.
- Have a plan and kit with essential supplies. Keep a battery-operated radio and flashlights handy in case the power goes out. Check the batteries now to make sure the equipment works, and do not rely on candles for lighting during a power outage.
- In the event you do experience a power outage, customers are encouraged to visit sdge.com/outages for status updates and to view SDG&E’s outage map.
- If you rely on electrically operated medical equipment for your health and safety, make sure you have made backup power arrangements in case of an unplanned outage.
- If you see SDG&E crews working in the field, please be sure to slow down while driving to give them space to restore power as safely as possible.
- For additional tips, customers can view SDG&E’s storm safety video here.
