Angelenos can see enhanced power outage map at www.ladwp.com/outages
LOS ANGELES (February 17, 2024) – As Los Angeles braces for another storm and significant rainfall beginning Sunday, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) crews are prepared to respond to any potential power outages that may occur due to weather. The utility is closely monitoring the storm and crews are at the ready to respond accordingly.
During the storm, winds could topple large objects such as trees, or cause branches and palm fronds to strike power lines which could cause power outages. In such a case, the LADWP power 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 to conduct repair work and restore power.
In addition to downed trees, flooding and water intrusion into underground electrical systems may also occur, resulting in power outages. When the affected equipment is underground, crews must go from vault to vault to identify the source of the damage before repairs can take place, which can also take time.
All Angelenos are urged to be careful at all times especially 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. Never approach or touch any wire that is down or dangling and immediately report it by calling 9-1-1.
To prepare for the rain and in case of a power outage that may affect your community, 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 your 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).
- Sign up for outage alerts at www.ladwp.com/outagealert.
- 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.
Follow LADWP via X, formerly known as Twitter, (@ladwp) and on NextDoor for potential outage information and updates.
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