The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, in a news release published Oct. 13, 2026, said the National Weather Service forecasts elevated to critical fire weather and potential power outages in much of Southern California and elevated fire risk in Northern California’s interior this Thursday and Friday.
Cal OES said strong winds can carry embers long distances, damage power infrastructure and turn debris into hazardous projectiles; to reduce wildfire risk, investor-owned electric utilities may temporarily turn off power to specific areas through Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS).
Residents should contact their utility provider for the latest information on the anticipated timing and duration of any potential shutoffs; people who use medical equipment at home may qualify for their utility’s Medical Baseline Program, which provides advance notifications before a PSPS and helps offset additional electricity costs.
Cal OES listed practical safety steps: take shelter next to or under a building; stay clear of roadways and train tracks; avoid roofs and other elevated areas; watch for flying debris and loose street signs or tree limbs.
If you find downed power lines, never approach them or anything touching them and call 911; report hazards and keep a safe distance from downed lines and damaged poles.
Driving guidance from the release includes slowing to a safe speed, keeping both hands on the wheel, leaving extra distance between vehicles and pulling over away from trees and power lines if winds prevent safe driving.
Wind patterns can shift rapidly and unpredictably, the release noted; that unpredictability increases the urgency to prepare now and rely on official utility and weather updates for decisions during the event.
Sources & methodology
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