PG&E Readies Resources, Crews Ahead of Storm Bringing Heavy Rain and Wind to Northern California

Core Viewpoint - Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is proactively preparing for severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds, expected to impact Northern California, ensuring a swift response to potential power outages and damage [1][2]. Group 1: Weather Preparedness - PG&E has positioned crews and resources across its service area to respond to storm-related damage and power outages [1]. - The National Weather Service has issued various advisories and warnings for the affected regions [1]. - Meteorologist Evan Duffey indicates that strong winds will affect the northern part of PG&E's service area, with central and southern regions experiencing adverse weather shortly thereafter [2]. Group 2: Response Strategy - PG&E employs storm outage prediction models using AI and machine learning to assess potential storm impacts, including timing and location of outages [2]. - The company has pre-staged essential equipment such as power poles, powerlines, and transformers to facilitate quick repairs and restoration of power [3]. Group 3: Customer Communication - PG&E provides real-time updates on outages through an online outage center, accessible to both customers and non-customers [4]. - Daily updates regarding storm response and restoration efforts will be available on PG&E Currents [5]. Group 4: Safety Measures - Customers are advised to prepare for the storm by following safety tips, such as avoiding downed power lines and using generators safely [6][7]. - Recommendations include using flashlights instead of candles during outages and securing outdoor furniture to prevent it from becoming a hazard [7][8]. Group 5: Company Overview - PG&E is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving over 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California [10].