Wind knocks out power around Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO -- Over 116,000 PG&E customers in the San Francisco Bay Area were impacted by power outages today while about 50,000 PG&E customers are still without power this evening due to high winds, according to PG&E officials.

As of 4 p.m., about 24,200 PG&E customers in the South Bay were without power. About 15,400 PG&E customers in the East Bay, 9,800 in the North Bay and about 600 in the Peninsula also were without power.

PG&E has about 1,500 personnel out clearing downed vegetation and power lines and working to restore service to customers.

Strong northerly wind gusts of at least 45 mph are expected this evening in the Bay Area, with winds up to 55 mph in the North and East Bay Areas, according to the National Weather Service.

Strong winds are expected through this evening until noon on Wednesday, when they are estimated to subside.

Freezing temperatures are expected in inland portions of the San Francisco Bay and Monterey Bay areas tonight, according to the NWS.

Reminders from PG&E:

A Red Cross facility has been opened in the town of Paradise, which has been hard-hit by the severe windstorm. The facility is located at the Paradise Alliance Church, 6491 Clark Rd, Paradise, CA.

PG&E reminds customers to prepare for power outages. Have flashlights and fresh batteries ready and know where to go for the latest outage information in your neighborhood.

PG&E urges customers to stay safe during a storm. Stay away from downed power lines and do not touch them. Be aware that some trees may be weak due to the drought and more vulnerable to falling in wet and windy weather. If you see damaged power lines and electric equipment, call 911, and then notify PG&E at 1-800-743-5002