PG&E says Northern California power shutoffs expected to continue Thursday

Pacific Gas & Electric Co. has implemented power shutoffs in Northern California due to heightened fire danger.

The wind event forecasted to hit the region arrived Wednesday. Wind gusts are expected to reach around 30 to 45 mph, with peak gusts in North Bay mountains, including Mount St. Helena, forecast to reach around 50 to 60 mph.

With low humidity also expected, officials are concerned about elevated fire danger. The National Weather Service implemented a red flag warning late Wednesday morning for the northern Sacramento Valley.

Shutoffs started Wednesday in parts of Colusa, Glenn, Lake, Napa, Sutter, Sonoma and Yolo counties. The utility said shutoffs are also likely in parts of Solano County through Thursday. Parts of the Cortina and Grindstone Rancherias could also be affected.

In all, PG&E said the targeted shutoffs are expected to affect just under 5,000 customers.

The red flag warning will be in effect through 5 p.m. Thursday.

PG&E last implemented power shutoffs in mid-May across a swath of Northern California.