California credit unions coping with the lights out

But Pacific Gas & Electric warns the power could be out for days.

While the lights have been out for less than 24 hours at many California counties where some credit unions have been forced to close branches or offer limited services, credit unions seem to be prepared for the power outages that may last for days.

To protect public safety, the state’s largest utility Pacific Gas & Electric turned off the power at midnight Wednesday for 34 counties  and more than two million customers because of gusty winds and dry conditions that could snap or break live power lines and spark wildfires.

Last year, power lines brought down or damaged by high winds ignited 13 wildfires, according to national media reports.

PG&E said the power outages could last for several days even after weather conditions improve. That’s because it will take some time for PG&E crews to painstakingly inspect all of power lines and equipment and make any necessary repairs before restoring power to consumers and businesses. Those inspections can only be conducted during daylight hours.

 

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