Vernal is on a list of Utah communities where Rocky Mountain Power has issued a ‘Public Safety Power Shutoff Watch/Warning’ for Friday through Sunday. What does this mean? Uintah County Emergency Management has provided the following answer to that question. “A Public Safety Power Shutoff is a planned power outage that Rocky Mountain Power may implement during periods of extreme wildfire danger. When strong winds, dry conditions, and wildfire risk combine, shutting off power in targeted areas can help prevent electrical equipment from sparking a wildfire. A PSPS is different from an unexpected outage. It is a preventive measure designed to protect lives, property, and our communities. At this time, a PSPS Watch has been issued, meaning conditions are being monitored. A shutoff is possible, but not certain.” For those in the Vernal area, now is a good time to charge phones and backup batteries; make sure you have food, water, and medications on hand; locate flashlights and extra batteries; and keep your vehicle’s fuel tank at least half full. Uintah County will continue sharing updates as information becomes available.
