Power Outage Scheduled in Flagstaff Due to Potential Wildfire Threats
In response to an increased risk of wildfires, Arizona Public Service (APS) has announced a power shutoff for approximately 6,000 customers in the Flagstaff area, citing high winds as the primary concern. The precautionary measure is intended to mitigate the risk of fires amid gusts reaching up to 70 miles per hour and prevailing dry conditions.
The impending outage will affect communities in eastern Flagstaff, including Cosnino, Doney Park, and areas surrounding Grand Canyon National Park. APS has emphasized that the shutoff is a controlled and targeted action. The outage is expected to last between 12 and 24 hours, commencing at 9 a.m., although adverse weather could extend this period.
APS spokesperson Yessica del Rincón explained the rationale behind the decision: “We’ve seen everything from trampolines to canopies that end up in our power lines and knocking off equipment during these same types of wind speeds and other storms. We’ve seen even steel metal poles that are bent forward. So this is really a decision that we may be making out of precaution to try to help reduce wildfire risk.”
Del Rincón noted that power shutoffs for public safety are rare occurrences, utilized only under extreme conditions. The Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) protocol, available to APS since 2024, is being implemented for the first time on this occasion. The specific weather conditions on April 22 were described as exceptionally uncommon by del Rincón.
While APS is taking precautionary measures, National Weather Service meteorologist Carter Humphreys offered a different perspective on the weather patterns, suggesting that wind gusts would likely range between 40 and 50 miles per hour. He noted, “You can never rule out a stray gust to a stronger speed, but the majority of the area, for the majority of the day, should see gusts in that 40 to 50 mile an hour range.”
Humphreys highlighted that while April often experiences gusty days, the current dryness and low relative humidity are factors to consider for fire danger. However, he mentioned that conditions have not yet warranted red flag warnings.
In light of the scheduled shutoff, Flagstaff city officials have advised residents to prepare by checking emergency kits, ensuring manual access to gates and garages, and having a plan for those relying on medical equipment. They also recommended using generators and minimizing refrigerator and freezer door openings to preserve food.
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