A significant power outage swept through San Francisco on March 16, 2024, affecting approximately 130,000 homes and businesses. As of early Sunday morning, March 17, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. (PG&E) reported that power had been restored to most customers, although over 20,000 remained without electricity.
The outage began in the early hours of Saturday, causing widespread disruption across various neighborhoods. Emergency services reported multiple instances of traffic signals being non-operational, leading to hazardous conditions for drivers and pedestrians alike. Local businesses were forced to close temporarily, and many residents experienced interruptions in their daily routines.
PG&E mobilized crews quickly to restore power. The utility company has stated that they are working diligently to address the remaining outages. “We understand the inconvenience this has caused our customers and are committed to restoring power as swiftly as possible,” said a spokesperson for PG&E.
As the situation developed, city officials began coordinating efforts to support affected residents. Emergency shelters were set up, providing food and warmth for those in need. Local authorities emphasized the importance of safety during the outage, urging residents to avoid using candles as a light source to reduce the risk of fire.
While the majority of customers had their power restored by the morning of March 17, many are still facing challenges. PG&E has been in contact with the remaining customers to provide updates on restoration efforts. The company is also conducting an investigation into the cause of the outage to prevent future occurrences.
Community response has reflected a mixture of relief and frustration. Many residents expressed gratitude for the quick response from utility teams, while others voiced concerns about the reliability of the power grid. “It’s a reminder of how dependent we are on electricity for our daily lives,” one resident noted.
As the city gradually returns to normalcy, PG&E continues to provide updates on restoration efforts. City officials are encouraging residents to report any ongoing issues to ensure a swift resolution.
