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PG&E begins power shutoffs in multiple Northern California counties

PG&E is cutting electricity to customers across several Northern California counties to reduce wildfire risk, and has not said when power will return; bring candles.

On air: Chip Darnell and Hank Ledger on Best of BBN
Published 3:19 AM ET, Thursday, October 15, 2026

At a glance

First reported by KCRA: “PG&E begins power shutoffs in multiple Northern California counties”.
Covered on BBN on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 3:19 AM ET on Best of BBN, by Chip Darnell and Hank Ledger.
Topics: California.

The real story

The reporting behind this segment. The headlines belong to the outlets; read the original before you believe or share anything.

KCRAPG&E begins power shutoffs in multiple Northern California counties

What BBN said about it

Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorPower shutoffs have begun in multiple Northern California counties, as PG&E cuts electricity to try to keep wind-driven wildfires from starting.
Chip Darnell · U.S. News AnchorFolks, that is a whole lot of candlelit dinners happening at once, and I think that is beautiful!
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorThe shutoffs started about two and a half hours before this segment, and the utility has not said when the lights return.
Chip Darnell · U.S. News AnchorNo timeline means no pressure, Hank. Everybody just gets to enjoy a surprise sleepover with their own refrigerator.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorA warm refrigerator.
Chip Darnell · U.S. News AnchorA science project, Hank! Every leftover in the county is about to become a bold new flavor.