Customers encouraged to prepare for outages related to wildfire prevention
PORTLAND, OR (June 15, 2026) – With dry conditions across the Pacific Northwest, Pacific Power is preparing its system to reduce wildfire risk. A large portion of Oregon has seen a drier than normal rainy season, and the state’s governor warned in May that the state is at serious risk for a challenging wildfire season.
Outlooks from NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center and the National Interagency Fire Center support the Governor’s warning, indicating a warmer and drier than normal summer, paired with increasing drought in many areas.
As part of Pacific Power’s ongoing wildfire prevention efforts, the company is taking steps to protect the customers and communities. These include enhanced safety settings and protective equipment designed to automatically shut off power when lines come into contact with debris, wildlife or strong winds.
During periods of extreme risk, the company may also temporarily de-energize power lines to reduce the likelihood of ignition or help limit the spread of active fires. These measures may lead to longer or more frequent outages for customers in some high-risk areas.
“We are preparing for an active wildfire season across our service area and taking proactive steps to reduce risk,” said Carrie Laird, Pacific Power’s vice president of wildfire mitigation and emergency operations. “Working closely with our public safety and business partners and encouraging customers to prepare now is critical to keeping our communities safe.”
Pacific Power monitors weather and wildfire conditions using more than 350 weather stations and advanced tools that track changing conditions and help guide operational decisions across its service territory.
The company’s wildfire mitigation efforts have received national recognition. A 2024 Stanford University study found PacifiCorp’s programs meet the highest standards in multiple states, reflecting a strong commitment to reducing wildfire risk and strengthening system resilience.
Customers can prepare for potential outages by ensuring their contact information is up to date to receive outage notifications, review backup power options and assemble an emergency kit.
More information is available at PacificPower.net/Wildfire and Oregon.gov/OSFM.
See photos and videos of Pacific Power’s wildfire work: https://www.pacificpower.net/about/newsroom/media-gallery.html
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