PGE, Pacific Power begin shutting off power in Oregon communities as winds worsen fire danger

 

Portland General Electric and Pacific Power are beginning to shut off power to homes and businesses in multiple Oregon counties as winds kick up, increasing wildfire danger.

PGE’s “Public Safety Power Shutoffs” began Friday morning, with power now off in the Mt. Hood corridor and foothills, the Columbia River Gorge, Silverdale/Corbett and Silver Falls, the utility company says.

...A “Public Safety Power Shutoff” is used by utility companies when conditions, such as high wind, are forecast in areas with increased wildfire risk. Power is shut off in those areas to help decrease the possibility that downed power lines could start or worsen a wildfire.

...Pacific Power estimates it will shut off power to many customers in Douglas County, Linn County and Marion County around 6 a.m. Friday. Customers in Lincoln County, Tillamook County and Polk County will see their lights go out around 10 a.m. Friday...MORE

What they really need is a "Public Safety Power Protection" plan through increased timber harvest and livestock grazing.

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