This archive report was first published on 10 October 2019.
On October 9, 2019, a planned power outage by PG&E left thousands of Californians without electricity, causing widespread disruptions and frustration. The outage was part of the utility's effort to prevent wildfires in the region, but many residents felt it was poorly executed.
Outside a Safeway grocery store in Larkin Valley, commuters were forced to wait in line without coffee, as the store's opening was delayed due to the power outage. Many residents had received emails or calls warning them of the potential power cut, but were unsure of the exact timing and duration.
Beth O'Shaughnessy and her family of four lost power at their home at 11 p.m. on Wednesday night, leaving them without access to food and other essential supplies. They had held off on stocking up due to the uncertain timeline and long lines for fuel.
PG&E Under Fire ¶
Many in Northern California had harsh words for PG&E, citing the utility's poor performance and lack of communication. State Senator Bill Dodd, a Democrat who represents northern counties of the Bay Area, called the situation 'beyond frustrating' and said that the power was shut down before the winds started to pick up in the North Bay.
Gayle Clark, a 69-year-old Air Force veteran, watched the commotion outside the grocery store with interest, saying that the power outage was just the beginning of a long-term problem. 'This isn't the end of this,' he said. 'This is the beginning.'
