2024-10-17 PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS)

News

Due to high winds and dry conditions, PG&E has announced a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) for parts of Santa Clara County starting late Thursday evening 10/17 until midday Saturday 10/19. This primarily affects the eastern foothills and the Santa Cruz Mountains in the county consisting of 663 customers.

Once weather has improved, PG&E will begin inspecting power lines and equipment for possible damage. Power will be restored as soon as it is safe to do so.

Initial Info: 2024-Oct-17

• PG&E shut off power at our Crystal Peak (W2XSC) radio site at approximately 23:38. The site is running on generator power and has several days of fuel on-site.
• Frazier Peak (W4XSC) is in the anticipated shutoff area but also has generator backup for multiple days.
• In all, up to 24 counties could be affected.

Key Messages to Amateur Radio Operators

• Top off your vehicle and generator (if you have one) and obtain cash.
  • Gas pumps and ATM machines don’t work without power
• Charge your batteries (and backup batteries) and test your radios
• Monitor your local jurisdiction’s web page(s) and the SCCo ARES/RACES web page for more information
• Follow your local jurisdiction’s amateur radio procedures for alerts and activations
• Mutual Aid Communicators: If an activation occurs, monitor the Resource Net for more information

As always, the weather can change, causing both the time and location of cutoffs to change. Stay tuned to local news, and use PG&E’s web site.