Santa Clara, CA, August 21, 2020: The recent wildfires, heatwaves, power outages, and evacuations in parts of the County, on top of the COVID-19 pandemic, has everyone on alert.
The air quality in parts of Santa Clara County is compromised which may impact adults who are sensitive to unclean air. The Airnow quality index which measures pollution states that any reading over 100 is unhealthy for sensitive groups. When this reading surpasses 150 the air is unhealthy for people even if they have no health risks. Therefore, it’s important that you are ready in an event of an emergency or evacuation.
Our team has pulled together some quick links with important information and resources to help you and your family stay alert, prepared and safe.
Important Emergency and Safety Preparedness Resources
Sign Up for AlertSCC
- AlertSCC is a free and easy way to get emergency alerts sent directly to your cell phone or mobile device, landline, or email.
WILDFIRES
In Santa Clara County, the SCU Lightning Complex fires are burning in the eastern part of the county, please stay alert and follow orders from CalFire.
- CalFire: How to Assemble an Emergency Supply Kit
- Avoid Breathing Wildfire Smoke – Stay Indoors When Air Quality is Unhealthy
- Santa Clara County Evacuation Map and Evacuation Resource Centers Opening
The Red Cross has opened Evacuation Resources Centers to assess needs and determine resources needed at the following locations:
- Milpitas Library, 160 N. Main Street, Milpitas CA 95035
- Ann Sobrato High School, 401 Burnett Ave., Morgan Hill CA 95037
HOT WEATHER SAFETY
POWER SHUTOFFS
With the increased wildfire threat our state faces, PG&E is enhancing and expanding our efforts to reduce wildfire risks and keep our customers and communities safe and prepared. This includes Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS).
A PSPS could mean that you might be without power for several days, even if you do not live in a high fire-threat area. Losing power will undoubtedly bring challenges, but by preparing in advance you can reduce the stress and anxiety of a PSPS.
Rotating outages are due to strain on California’s grid. The need for outages is determined by the statewide grid operator CAISO and not PG&E. Rotating outages are not related to any issues with PG&E’s equipment or its ability to deliver energy locally. PG&E has included a power outage lookup tool to help residents check to see if you will be impacted.
If rotating outages are needed, PG&E will post information at this page to show the order in which PG&E will likely proceed, if ordered by CAISO to turn off power. Estimated restoration times are 2-3 hours after the outage actually starts. The situation remains dynamic and shutoff times may change. Check back at this page frequently for updates.
Sourcewise is the designated Area Agency on Aging of Santa Clara County and is one of thirty-three Area Agencies on Aging in California. As an independent non-profit organization, Sourcewise educates, prepares, and provides direct support services and resources to older adults, caregivers and individuals with disabilities in Santa Clara County.
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