Frustrated Southern California Mountain Communities Face Power Outages Amid Snow Forecast

Residents Demand Answers as Winter Weather Arrives

With snow forecasted for the San Bernardino Mountains this weekend, residents who have gone for days or weeks without power are frustrated and concerned, especially as winter weather arrives.

Power Shutoffs a Measure of Last Resort

To reduce wildfire risk, power to the region was shut off, leaving thousands across the Inland Empire struggling to live and work.

Southern California Edison said power shutoffs typically occur “during dangerous weather conditions to prevent our electric system from becoming a source of ignition. These safety shutoffs are a measure of last resort for keeping you and your community safe.”

Residents Demand Answers and Solutions

Many residents, like Michelle Caulkins, a Lake Arrowhead resident, are demanding answers from SoCal Edison executives.

“I’d invite [the executives] to my house to come endure the snow with me with a power outage when it’s going to be below 30 degrees,” Caulkins said. “Come and enjoy it with me without a generator, without a stove, and figure out how to stay warm with us.”

Impact on Local Businesses

Heather Paul, who owns a gift shop in Running Springs, said the lack of electricity resulted in a 25% drop in revenue compared to the same time last year because she couldn’t open up for business.

“I believe we’ve had probably six days loss of business due to power outages,” Paul said.

Concerns for Seniors and Airbnb Guests

Locals who own Airbnbs said angry guests left without power during their stay have been demanding refunds, as well. Many are wondering whether long-term solutions are in the works.

“If this is going to be a thing, this can’t be the new normal,” Paul said. “It’s crazy. Are we going to put the wires under the ground?”

SoCal Edison Response

SoCal Edison said public safety shutoffs are typically a last resort that depend on several factors including wind speed and surrounding vegetation. As for the incoming snowfall forecasted this weekend, officials could not confirm whether power would be shut off as they continue monitoring real-time conditions.

San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors’ Open Letter

The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors wrote an open letter to SoCal Edison over the issue, saying in part:

“Over the past several days, we’ve heard from many concerned residents about Southern California Edison’s (SCE) power outages. Some of these outages drag on for more than a week and people are understandably frustrated, particularly our mountain communities, who rely on electricity to stay warm during these cold winter months. 

The outages are exceptionally harsh on our seniors. Unfortunately, the county has no control over these events due to current state-imposed regulations and that give local jurisdictions zero control over energy resources during such circumstances. We certainly understand the threat of high winds, which can put significant strain on our energy infrastructure and increase fire danger and we are very fortunate to not have experienced any devastating emergencies, unlike our neighbors in Los Angeles County. 

However, it’s clear that there are many issues with how SCE has managed this wind event. Many residents who live well outside the fire-prone areas are experiencing lengthy outages. In many instances, there has been little communication by SCE to its customers about when power will be restored. The lack of useful information by SCE has been alarming. SCE needs to have greater flexibility built into their circuits to minimize the number of customers who are impacted.  

In addition, the State of California continues its premature push for full electrification, which will only amplify the problem. The state needs to realize the impact of its policies on our communities and take action to ensure that what happened during this wind event does not become a new standard in our county.”

Conclusion

Residents are demanding answers and solutions to the power outage issue, and the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors is urging SoCal Edison to take action to minimize the impact on communities. As the winter weather continues, residents are left wondering when power will be restored and what long-term solutions will be implemented to prevent future outages.

FAQs

Q: Why did SoCal Edison shut off power to the region?

A: SoCal Edison shut off power to reduce wildfire risk during dangerous weather conditions.

Q: How can I check if my neighborhood is under a Public Safety Power Shutoff?

A: You can visit SoCal Edison’s website to check if your neighborhood is under a Public Safety Power Shutoff.

Q: What can I do to prepare for a power outage?

A: You can prepare for a power outage by having a plan in place, having a backup power source, and staying informed about weather conditions.

Q: How can I file a complaint with SoCal Edison?

A: You can file a complaint with SoCal Edison by visiting the CPUC website.