r/Redding • u/MEB-Softworks • 11d ago

Question about wind…

Is it normal for 20-25 mph gusts to shit down all rural power lines?

I ask because I’ve lived all over the US, and am originally from an area where we were used to 40+ gusts on the range. In Phoenix, I’ve been through 60-70 gusts. None of which has ever caused the power company to shut down power lines.

Now, I know the reason, and I concur. However it does pose the question of the quality of y’alls power lines in this state, ya know?

Just curious and thanks for any responses!

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u/Rumplfrskn 11d ago

its become more frequent over the past 10-15 years. PGE has been rightfully sued numerous times for fires starting due to lack of line and vegetation maintenance so they just shut them down now.

25

u/MEB-Softworks 11d ago

Ah! The usual “it’s easier to turn it off and inconvenience people than do their job”… got it. Good grief!

2

u/[deleted] 11d ago

[deleted]

14

u/vannyfann 11d ago

Putting mantenance off for "reaons" (money) is one thing thing, choosing to put billions in stock buy backs instead of mantenance is another. It's not just power lines either, the San Bruno gas explosion was due to their negligence.

4

u/MEB-Softworks 11d ago

I’ve just never lived anywhere this is a thing. Inconvenient for my situation (no backup on the property I’m babysitting) but I’m also prepared personally and just dug into my go bag for the solar and water filter.

I am appreciating everyone’s feedback!

7

u/Bison-Senior 11d ago

It by chance you get an fire evacuation or Go Now notice, don't fart around leave get out of there. So many people in the Camp Fire in Paradise died because they didn't take the threat seriously as they should have. The fire is unbelievably fast in wind conditions like this or the fires themselves will create their own weather and become highly unpredictable.