HONOLULU (KHON2) — Executives from HECO and first responders discussed a new program aimed at mitigating wildfire threats.
The program seeks to preemptively shut down power during high winds, low humidity weather events to keep the public safe.
HECO said on their website that they will aim to give 24 to 48 hours notice before a shutdown event, based on weather data, including NWS statements.
“We’ll do our best to provide advance notice, but if conditions are suddenly hazardous we may have to shut off your power with little or no notice.”
Areas under the program were chosen based on expert input as well as HECO field employees. Areas with high wildfire risk were assessed to see where HECO equipment and circuits are.
HECO plans to launch 54 weather stations across their system during the summer and to augment operations, HECO will deploy observers to certain areas during weather events.
The company did warn that if they do implement the program, it does not mean that they will shut down power in all areas identified in the program maps.
“Customers will receive PSPS notifications via emails, phone calls, texts, social media updates, mobile app notifications, and news releases. It is vital to maintain up-to-date contact information and download our mobile app for push notifications.”
The PSPS is set to take effect on July 1.