PG&E is enhancing its wildfire preparedness by installing over 1,600 weather stations and 600 high-definition cameras as Northern California faces above-normal fire risks this summer.
The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) has reported that Northern California will experience above-normal fire risk from July through September 2026. In response to this alarming forecast, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is taking significant steps to bolster community safety and wildfire preparedness.
During a media briefing on July 8, Scott Strenfel, Senior Director of Meteorology and Fire Science at PG&E, outlined the organization’s proactive measures as the state approaches its peak wildfire season. PG&E is installing over 1,600 weather stations and 600 high-definition cameras to enhance its ability to predict and respond to wildfires and severe weather conditions.
To mitigate the impact of wildfires and reduce the necessity for power shutoffs, PG&E is actively trimming or removing more than 1.5 million trees and improving safety measures on its power lines. Strenfel emphasized that power shutoffs are a last resort. The company evaluates several factors, including low humidity, sustained winds exceeding 19 mph, National Weather Service red flag warnings, and dry vegetation, before making the decision to shut off power for public safety.
In the event of a power outage, PG&E offers various backup power options, including portable batteries and a residential battery storage program tailored for customers who are most affected by outages. Additionally, the company provides rebates for permanent home battery systems to help residents prepare for potential disruptions.
Tom Smith, Senior Manager of PG&E’s Customer Emergency Planning and Operations, reiterated the company’s commitment to safety, stating that over 2,000 weather stations and high-definition cameras are being deployed to improve wildfire prediction and response capabilities. With more than 50% of PG&E’s service area classified as a high-fire-risk zone, the company has implemented a three-tiered approach to wildfire protection.
The first tier focuses on monitoring weather and wildfire conditions. This is followed by operational safety measures, and finally, long-term improvements such as installing stronger utility poles and covering over 1,900 miles of overhead power lines. Smith also addressed concerns regarding the strengthening El Niño phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean, which could lead to a wetter winter and increased flooding.
“No matter what the El Niño situation is, we are prepared,” Smith assured during the briefing.
During outages, PG&E keeps customers informed through text messages, emails, and updates on Nextdoor until power is restored. Outage alerts are available in 16 languages, including Farsi, Japanese, Hindi, and Hmong, ensuring that communication reaches a diverse audience.
PG&E has also established support systems for individuals with access and functional needs. These include ADA-accessible bathrooms, discounts for hotel accommodations, and a live assistance hotline, 211, which provides free, confidential information and referral services to connect individuals with local health, human services, and community resources.
For more information on PG&E’s wildfire safety initiatives in your community, visit pge.com/progressmap.
These efforts highlight PG&E’s commitment to enhancing community safety as Northern California braces for another challenging wildfire season, according to India Currents.