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For LADWP’s COVID-19 response, visit www.ladwp.com/covid19response

LADWP Crews Prepare for First Windstorm of the Year, Cautions Public to Stay Away from Downed Power Lines

graphic with a fire clipart icon and text that reads extreme fire conditions widespread damaging winds along with additional text to the right with more details on what to expect from the weather

LOS ANGELES (January 6, 2025) – Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) electric crews are prepared to respond to any potential power outages that may occur as the first forecasted high windstorm of the year is expected to bring damaging winds of 50-80 miles-per-hour for much of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties starting tomorrow afternoon through Wednesday. The National Weather Service has also issued a fire weather watch through Friday.

Strong winds can knock over trees, or cause branches and palm fronds to strike power lines which could result in power outages. If that occurs, a crew’s first responsibility is to secure the affected area to protect the public from safety hazards posed by downed trees and power lines, followed by the removal of trees entangling LADWP power poles and power lines. Only after this is done can crews begin repair work to restore power. 

As a reminder, LADWP urges customers to use caution around any downed or dangling wires or poles. If you see a downed wire, always assume it is live. Do not assume a downed wire is a communication line, no matter its size. Never approach or touch any wire that is down or dangling and immediately report it by calling 9-1-1.  

In preparation of this extreme weather, LADWP recommends customers take the following steps:    

  • Keep a flashlight and extra batteries nearby. Never use candles in a power outage or other emergency.  
  • Keep your cellphone fully charged as your cordless “landline” may also lose connectivity during a storm. It will also enable you to access information online.    
  • Keep a fully charged portable cell phone charger handy in case you need to charge any of your electronics while power is out.    

If power does go out:   

  • Report outages online and track crew status at www.ladwp.com/outages or by calling 1-800-DIAL-DWP (1-800-342-5397).  
  • Switch off all lights, except for one, so you will know when your power has been restored.   
  • Keep your refrigerator closed to keep food cold for longer.   
  • Check on vulnerable friends and neighbors to make sure they are safe.   

Customers can sign up to receive outage alerts via text or email, in English or Spanish, report an outage, as well as check the status of any power outage in LADWP‘s service area by going online at www.LADWP.com/Outages.

Follow LADWP via X, formerly known as Twitter, (@ladwp) and on Nextdoor for tips, potential outage information and updates.  

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