Updates, October 9, 2019: 5:30 PM
- National Weather Service reports that a high wind weather event is expected with high confidence after sunset today (10/9) through early morning tomorrow (10/10). The City has activated its Emergency Operation Center to mobilize resources to address the power loss and increased fire threat, and SVFRA has increased staffing and resources. The wind event is anticipated to end on Thursday afternoon. PG&E has indicated it may take up to five days to restore power to all customers once the threat has passed. Updates will be shared as provided by PG&E.
- More than 300 community members utilized the Charging Center opened today at the Veterans’ Memorial Building to recharge their devices. The Charging Center, operated by the City and County with the assistance of community volunteers organized by the Sonoma Community Center, will be open again tomorrow at 126 1st St West from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Sonoma Valley will now have two locations open for charging their electronic devices. A PG&E Community Resource Center will open at Hanna Boys’ Center on Arnold Drive starting Thursday, October 10th at 8:00 AM. Device charging, water, and air-conditioned seating will be available.
- Sonoma City Hall will be open regular hours tomorrow (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM). The availability of individual City staff members may be limited as they may be working at the City’s Emergency Operations Center during the PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoff.
- Important safety information: When traffic signals are out, drivers should treat the intersection as a 4-way STOP and proceed with caution when it is safe to do so, in accordance with the Vehicle Code. After dark it will be difficult to see intersections when traffic signals and streetlights are not functioning. If you need to be on the road, drive with extra caution and watch for pedestrians. CalTrans controls the signalized intersections along Highway 12.
- The City of Sonoma’s water system is supported by back-up generators and diesel pumps. During the power outage the City is maintaining its normal water deliveries to our customers. The power outage has no impact on the quality of the City’s water. Conserving water during a power outage reduces the demand on the backup power generators that help move water through the system that provides drinking water and water for firefighting. This includes using water efficiently, eliminating outdoor watering, and remembering to turn off irrigation systems.
- The Sonoma Chamber and Sonoma Valley Visitors Bureau are compiling and sharing information on businesses that are open. Visit sonomavalley.com/open for details.
A video of these updates is provided by Mayor Amy Harrington (with Spanish translation) on the City’s facebook page. Tune to KSVY radio, 91.3 FM, for updates as the power shutoff continues.