SCE Crews Ready to Respond as Strong Winds Forecast Through Weekend

With strong winds forecast throughout the Southland this weekend, Southern California Edison reminds its customers to be on alert for downed power lines and possible power outages.

The National Weather Service has issued warnings for strong winds beginning this morning through Saturday afternoon. Isolated wind gusts up to 90 mph are possible in parts of Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, Inyo, Imperial, Mono and Ventura counties.  

High winds can cause damage to electric lines and equipment can be damaged if hit by flying debris. SCE reminds its customers to never approach or touch a downed power line or dangling wire or anything in contact with them — even if it appears not to be live — and call 911 immediately. Traffic signals may be out so approach those intersections as four-way stops.

“The system performed well overnight,” said Jim Cherrie, SCE director of Grid Operations. “We will be closely monitoring the wind conditions this weekend and SCE has crews ready to respond in case of any additional outages or possible downed wires.” 

Red flag warnings have also been issued today and Saturday for portions of the Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura and Los Angeles counties. The warnings are issued due to potential fire danger because of gusty winds and low humidity in the area.

Customers may report or inquire about outages at 800-611-1911 and get the latest information using the SCE outages app at sce.com/outages. Customers can also get the latest information by visiting www.sce.com/staysafe or at twitter.com/sce and facebook.com/sce.

SCE Safety Tips in High-Wind Conditions: 

• Remember to check emergency supplies to be sure you have a battery-operated radio, a flashlight and fresh batteries. Do not use candles for lighting as they pose a fire hazard.
• If you’re in a vehicle with a fallen power line on it, stay in the vehicle and remain calm until help arrives. It is OK to use your cellphone to call 911. If you must leave the vehicle, remember to exit away from downed power lines and exit by jumping from the vehicle. You must not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Then proceed away from the vehicle by shuffling your feet until you are several yards away. 
• Water and electricity don’t mix. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity. Do not step in or enter any water that a downed power line may be touching.
• If you use a generator, place it outdoors and plug individual appliances directly into it, using a heavy-duty extension cord. Connecting generators directly to household circuits creates “backfeed,” which is dangerous to repair crews. Please consult the manufacturer’s manual for operating the generator.
• With low overnight temperatures in areas of the Southland, do not use any equipment inside that is designed for outdoor heating or cooking. Such equipment can emit carbon monoxide and other toxic gases.