Protecting Our Communities During Extreme Fire Weather
A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is a proactive safety measure utilities like Wasco Electric Cooperative (WEC) may use during extreme weather conditions to reduce the risk of wildfire caused by electrical infrastructure. During periods of high winds, low humidity, dry vegetation, and elevated fire danger, power may be temporarily shut off in targeted areas to help keep communities safe.
A PSPS is considered a measure of last resort. WEC continuously monitors weather forecasts, vegetation conditions, wildfire risk models, and field observations before determining whether a shutoff is necessary.
Why Would Power Be Shut Off?
Under certain extreme conditions, damaged power lines or electrical equipment can spark wildfires. A PSPS helps reduce that risk by temporarily de-energizing portions of the electric system until conditions improve. Factors that may contribute to a PSPS include:
- High winds
- Low humidity
- Dry vegetation and fuel conditions
- Red Flag Warnings
- Elevated wildfire danger
- Public safety concerns
WEC uses real-time weather forecasts, environmental data, field observations, and operational assessments.
What to Expect During a PSPS Event
Whenever feasible, WEC will provide advance notice through phone calls, text alerts, website updates, and social media. Notification timelines may vary depending on weather conditions and the speed at which wildfire risks develop.
A typical PSPS event may include:
- PSPS Watch – Conditions are being monitored.
- PSPS Warning – A shutoff is likely.
- PSPS Active – Power has been turned off in affected areas.
- Restoration and Inspection – Crews inspect lines and equipment before safely restoring power.
Power restoration may take several hours or even multiple days depending on weather conditions, terrain, and the need for safety inspections.
How to Prepare
Being prepared before wildfire season can help reduce disruptions during a PSPS event.
- Build an Emergency Kit
- Plan for Medical Needs
- Prepare Your Home
- Use Generators Safely
- Stay Informed
Find more information on how to prepare, see our Power Outage Safety and Weather Preparedness Pages.
Our Commitment
We understand power outages create challenges for families, businesses, and communities. Any decision to implement a PSPS is made with public safety as the highest priority along with impacts on emergency services, communication systems, water systems and local needs. Our goal is to reduce wildfire risk while keeping members informed, prepared, and safe during periods of extreme fire danger.