A strong storm system is bearing down on the Sacramento region, where wind gusts are expected to top 60 mph at times. Powerful winds have been knocking down trees, and in some areas, power lines.
Sometime around 4:15 pm., the SMUD Outage Center website went down. A SMUD spokesperson said the SMUD App is still working and customers can get more information about outages there.
According to the app, 204,685 customers were without power at about 7:15 p.m. The app said there were 759 outages. The number of customers has since gone down to 156,454 customers, with 864 outages at 8 p.m.
SMUD posted on X that crews may not be able to make repairs safely during the wind event. Its crews will continue to work throughout the night to make sure areas impacted are safe. They will continue to assess damages and restore power.
SMUD urges people who encounter a downed power line to stay clear and immediately dial 1-888-456-SMUD (7683) or 911.
Here’s what to do if you come across a downed power line. Stay clear and immediately dial 1-888-456-SMUD (7683) or 911. Assume the line is energized, warn others to stay back and never touch it. Fallen debris near power lines poses an electric shock risk. Stay safe! pic.twitter.com/RacYMcKLT1
— SMUD (@SMUDUpdates) February 4, 2024
According to PG&E’s outage map, there are tens of thousands of customers also without power. You can see PG&E’s outage map, here.
The National Weather Service advising folks to prepare for possible power outages, difficult driving conditions and downed trees, similar storm damage to previous years.
Officials are advising people to prepare for power outages by having things like flashlights handy and charging their electronic devices. And for the driving conditions, be aware of downed trees.