Power shutoff for parts of central and southern Utah

UPDATE: The public safety power shutoff was canceled by Saturday night, according to Rocky Mountain Power. The previous story about that shutoff follows:

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SALT LAKE CITY — At least 2,852 customers were without power on Saturday after their power was shutoff due to risk of a wildfire starting in their area.

Rocky Mountain Power initiated what they call a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) for the affected customers as early as 6 a.m. The power company said in a news release that the shutoff was due to “elevated winds and extreme fire conditions in central and southern Utah.”

According to the power company, as of 10:24 a.m. on Saturday, parts of Cedar City, Enterprise Valley, Milford, Richfield and Dixie have an active PSPS.

Power in the affected areas could turn back on depending on weather conditions, however, Rocky Mountain Power said if the PSPS continues the power may stay off until noon on Sunday.

“Protecting the safety of our customers and the communities we serve remains our number one priority,” said Pete Singh, Rocky Mountain Power incident commander. “As we move into initiating a Public Safety Power Shutoff, our crews are ready to patrol lines, make repairs, and restore power as soon as conditions safely allow.”

Other areas were on notice

Other parts of Cedar City, Milford, Richfield and Panguitch were on a “watch” status, meaning it was possible for a PSPS to occur. According to the power company, these areas included 1,531 customers, but the watch was lifted by 7 p.m. Saturday.

“A temporary Community Resource Center will be available to customers for charging devices, staying cool and accessing other amenities,” the power company said. “A Community Resource Center will be open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, or until power has been restored.”

According to Rocky Mountain Power, the Heritage Center located at 105 North 100 East in Cedar City is being used as a resource center.

“Rocky Mountain Power urges customers to follow local public safety agency recommendations, have a plan and prepare an emergency kit,” the power company said. “Customers requiring electricity for medical needs should contact Rocky Mountain Power Customer Service at 1-888-221-7070. Rocky Mountain Power encourages property managers and landlords to share this safety information with tenants who may be impacted.”

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.