The Sacramento region continues to be battered by Sunday’s strong winter storm, which brought 65+ mph winds in many areas, resulting in downed trees and widespread damage across the region. Storm-related damage knocked out power to about 200,000 SMUD customers.
As of 8:35 p.m., 105,000 customers remained without power, according to a press release issued by SMUD Sunday night.
So far, SMUD states they have identified more than 60 downed lines, dozens of downed power poles and numerous trees impacting utility equipment. These numbers will grow significantly as assessments are completed.
“SMUD has more than 80 crews that will be working on a 24/7 basis to assess damage, make repairs and restore power to all customers, reads a statement from the utility company.
“Public and crew safety is our top priority. When high wind gusts occur, crews may not be able to safely make storm damage-related repairs. We’re continuing to work throughout the night to make sure impacted areas are safe, assess the damages and restore power. Due to extensive damage, some customers will experience extended outages that continue overnight. SMUD is contacting customers we expect to be out of power overnight directly so they can make arrangements.”
SMUD prioritizes where crews will be sent during a storm as follows:
1. Public safety hazards (power lines down, poles down)
2. Hospitals, critical flood control pumps and other facilities with large community impact
3. Areas with large numbers of customers out of power
4. Scattered, smaller outages
Safety is a top priority and SMUD is providing tips for customers to stay safe.
If the power goes out…
• Check to see if the lights are out in neighboring homes. If so, it’s likely a larger outage.
• Report the outage at smud.org/outages, via the SMUD mobile app or at 1-888-456-SMUD (7683).
• If you are the only one without power, visit smud.org/storms for instructions on safely checking/resetting your main breaker.
If stormy weather knocks down a power line…
• Stay away and call SMUD at 1-888-456-SMUD (7683) or 911 immediately.
• Assume the line is “energized” and stay away and warn others to do the same.
• Do not remove fallen tree limbs or other debris from power lines. Tree limbs and other objects can conduct electricity that can shock anyone coming in contact with them.
SMUD urges people to check on family, friends and neighbors who may experience outages.
While homes can get cold without power, SMUD warns customers not to heat homes with propane heaters, grills, hibachis or BBQs. They produce carbon monoxide, a clear, odorless gas that can be fatal to humans and animals
