Thousands potentially to go without power in Santa Barbara, Ventura counties during Santa Ana winds

Southern California Edison is considering shutting off power for nearly 13,000 customers in Santa Barbara County from Wednesday through Friday. 

The shutoff would include Eastern Goleta Valley, Mission Canyon and the Santa Barbara Eastside, Montecito, Summerland and Carpinteria, according to an outage status map from the electric company. 

Edison might shut off power to an additional 124,000 people in Ventura County, depending on the winds.

Gusty Santa Ana winds are expected to come in from the northeast into parts of Santa Barbara and throughout Ventura, with wind speeds reaching 41 miles per hour in Oxnard, according to the National Weather Service. 

“We’re seeing strong winds combined with dry grounds in those areas,” said David Eisenhauer, spokesman for Southern California Edison.

The heightened risk of wildfire from strong storm winds and dry vegetation led the company to potentially shutting off power for customers, Eisenhauer said. 

As of Wednesday afternoon, 12,814 customers in Santa Barbara County and 124,587 customers in Ventura County are being considered for the public safety shutoffs, according to the company’s website. 

Eisenhauer said the shutoffs are expected during the windy period and after crews have inspected power lines, which can take several days.

The National Weather Service has also issued heat advisories for areas along the coast as temperatures are expected to reach nearly 90 degrees Fahrenheit in Santa Barbara. 

Eisenhauer advised customers for Southern California Edison in the affected areas to stay prepared before the shuttoffs happen by charging electronics and filling their car gas tanks.

“It is important for people to have an emergency kit with essentials,” said Eisenhauer, including portable chargers, extra food and water supplies.  

In addition, customers should keep all refrigerators and freezers closed as well as keep one light on to know when the power comes back.  

Customers should also make sure they are signed up for outage alerts, Eisenhauer said. 

The Courtyard by Marriott on 401 Storke Rd. in Goleta is open from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Wednesday for potential customers affected by the shutoffs to use lobby space and connect with representatives from Southern California Edison.  

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