After a major power outage left over 130,000 customers in the dark in San Francisco this weekend, PG&E is still working to fully restore power by 2 pm on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025.
The outage was caused by a fire at a PG&E substation at 8th and Mission Streets in San Francisco.
PG&E is operating a Community Resource Center at 251 18th Ave in SF’s Richmond District, open from 8am-10pm today (Monday, Dec 22). Visit for free Wi-Fi, power stations to charge electronics, water, snacks, ice, ADA-accessible restrooms, and information. Learn more and get updates at the PG&E website.
While power is back on for most of the people affected, it’s worth taking a moment to review your power outage plan, especially with stormy weather on the way this week.
“Heavy rain, strong winds and mountain snow are headed to Northern & Central CA this week. PG&E crews are readying to respond to expected power outages,” wrote PG&E on X yesterday. “Customers are urged to prepare as well.”
How to stay informed
Firstly, make sure you have several different ways to receive information should a power outage occur. Here are a few methods to consider.
- Buy a battery-powered or hand-crank radio that can receive NOAA broadcasts.
- Make sure your PG&E contact details are up to date to receive texts, calls, and emails.
- Sign up for public safety alerts such as AlertSF and the National Weather Service.
What to do if a power outage occurs
- Check the PG&E outage map or app for estimated restoration times and safety information, or call 1‑800‑743‑5002 (1‑800‑PGE‑5002)
- Text rather than call loved ones to conserve phone battery
- Tune into NOAA Weather Radio’s “All Hazards,” which broadcasts 24/7
- If you see a downed power line, stay far away and call 911 first, then PG&E
- Unplug household appliances, turn off light switches, and use surge protectors
How to prepare your home and build a supply kit
Start collecting the following items for a power outage supply kit.
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Hard copy of important phone numbers (fire department, paramedics, police, hospital, doctor, relatives, etc.)
- Multiple flashlights or LED lanterns in strategic locations
- First aid kit
- 7-day supply of prescription medications
- Cash
- Bottled water (experts recommend 1 gallon per person per day)
- Nonperishable food, including canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruit
- Fresh batteries
- Coolers, ice chests, and ice packs
- External power banks and portable chargers
- Blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing if the heating fails
- Games, books, and other non-screen entertainment, especially to keep children occupied
- Baby supplies, pet food and leashes, disability-related items, or any other specialized items
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with your home’s utility boxes and how to turn them off/on, as well as how to manually open garage doors and gates.
Check the American Red Cross Power Outage Checklist for a more detailed guide.