As PG&E meteorologists keep a close watch on a prolonged heat wave, the utility is sharing resources to help customers remain safe and ready.

/PRNewswire/ -- Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is getting ready for an extended heat wave across inland sections of its service territory, expected to start July 31 and run through August 7, with the most intense heat forecast from August 1 through August 3.

PG&E meteorologists predict that the high temperatures in the North Valley and Sierra Foothills along with the Central Valley will further dry out fuels and vegetation, raising wildfire risk in these zones.

Q: What steps is PG&E taking to prepare for the coming heat wave?
A: PG&E is taking proactive measures to ready its electric system and teams for the expected extreme heat. The company is aligning staffing levels, boosting crew readiness, positioning equipment and supplies in advance, and reviewing operational plans to maintain safe and reliable electric service. PG&E also keeps a stock of Fire and Flood Emergency Services suppression tools that can be deployed rapidly if needed.

Q: What temperature levels are anticipated?
A: As of July 29, PG&E meteorologists have noted temperatures ranging from 102 to 108 degrees in Redding, Red Bluff, Marysville and nearby areas. In the Central Valley, readings are expected between 104 and 108 degrees in Stockton, Fresno and Bakersfield.

Q: Why does this heat wave raise wildfire concerns?
A: Although strong winds are not forecast to be widespread, the long stretch of above-normal heat will continue to dry vegetation and fuels. Dry conditions can heighten wildfire potential, so close monitoring and readiness remain essential.

Q: How does PG&E monitor weather and fire conditions?
A: PG&E's internal meteorology team tracks weather and wildfire potential around the clock with advanced forecasting tools. Their real-time insights guide operational planning and support decisions throughout the company.

"This extended period of above-normal temperatures and low humidity will keep drying fuels, increasing fire risk even without widespread strong winds," said PG&E Chief Meteorologist Scott Strenfel. "We are watching conditions nonstop and supplying our operations teams with the latest forecasts to aid planning and response as the situation develops."

Q: What can customers do to prepare for possible heat-related outages?
A: PG&E urges customers to plan ahead and be ready for possible outages during extreme heat. Customers should:

Use battery-operated flashlights rather than candles to lower fire risk.
Make sure generators are installed correctly by a licensed electrician and run in a well-ventilated space.
Freeze water containers to help keep refrigerators and freezers cold during power interruptions.
Keep mobile phones and key devices charged.
Review emergency plans and keep needed medications and critical supplies on hand.

Q: How can customers stay updated during an outage?
A: Customers can get outage updates through these channels:

Call PG&E's outage information line at 1-800-743-5002.
Visit PG&E's Outage Center and Electric Outage Map online.
Sign in to their account at pge.com to sign up for outage alerts by text, email, or phone.
Update contact details at pge.com/mywildfirealerts to receive important safety and operational notices.

Q: What is PG&E's message to customers?
A: PG&E encourages customers to stay informed, prepare for hot weather, and take simple steps now to ensure their homes are ready. The company will continue monitoring conditions around the clock and coordinating resources across its service area to support safe and reliable service during the heat event.

About PG&E
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation (NYSE: PCG), is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than sixteen million people across 70,000 square miles in Northern and Central California. For more information, visit pge.com and pge.com/news

SOURCE Pacific Gas and Electric Company