40,000 at risk of power shutoff as Oregon wildfire danger grows

 

Over 40,000 customers in Oregon are expected to lose power in planned shutoffs starting Friday, as strong winds threaten to worsen wildfire conditions across the state.

Portland General Electric said Wednesday that it will likely shut off power to 30,000 customers in 10 areas starting Friday morning and lasting through Saturday night. Shutoffs are expected in Multnomah, Marion, Clackamas and Washington counties, the Columbia River Gorge and in the foothills of Mt. Hood.

If there is no damage to its equipment, the company said it would start restoring power Sunday morning, with customers expected to have power back by Monday night. The company did not say how long power restoration would take if power lines were damaged or if the weather forecast changed...MORE