Wondering what to do if your power goes out? Below are details and links for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) power outage map, LA weather forecast and radar information, and wildfire updates.
If a power outage occurs in LA, call LADWP’s outage number at 800-342-5397. You can also view the LADWP Outage Map for Los Angeles, which shows the number and location of power outages in the city.
Below, you’ll find the best immediate resources to view Los Angeles LADWP outages, weather forecasts and wildfire information. In California, wildfire season begins in May and ends in October.
Los Angeles Power Outages, Real Time Map & Severe Weather
As the electricity provider in Los Angeles, LADWP is responsible for restoring power outages, fixing power lines, and providing electricity service. LADWP serves over 4 million customers in California.
Their power outage map provides greater detail related to local service.
The LADWP Outage Map allows you to:
- Sign up for electricity outage alerts
- View the number and status of power outages based on your location
- View customer service and emergency information
- View the areas currently experiencing a power outage based on the following map:
Best Los Angeles Weather Radar and Forecasts
- KTLA Channel 5 TV: Los Angeles weather updates and radar
- ABC Channel 7 TV: Los Angeles forecast and map
- NBC Los Angeles Channel 5 TV: Los Angeles weather and radar
- Weather.com: Los Angeles weather radar and forecast
What to do in the Event of a Power Outage in Los Angeles?
- Electrical surges that happen after power outages can damage your electronic devices, so make sure to unplug your devices after a power outage occurs.
- Keep your refrigerator and freezer shut at all times to avoid spoiling your food.
- Check with your neighbors or others in your area to confirm the outage is not just at your house.
- Try to find an electricity source for any power-dependent medical devices.
- Go to another location in case of an immediate need for cooling or heating.
The first thing you should do when the power goes out is to disconnect all of your electronics because when the power is eventually turned back on, electrical surges can permanently damage them. The next thing you should do is check the Power Outage Map for the latest updates. You may also need to change locations for better heating or cooling. This may be necessary if you have small children or you are living with elderly people.
Writing down the outage number, or saving it in your phone would be helpful in case the outage is a surprise. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power’s outage number is 800-342-5397.
Protecting Your Food Supply
When the power goes out, food can spoil quickly because there’s no climate control in the refrigerator or in the household. A refrigerator can only protect food for at least 4 hours, so it’s important to stock up on nonperishable foods.
- Consume perishable foods first when possible.
- Throw away any foods at risk of perishing quickly without refrigeration.
- Don’t go into the refrigerator or freezer unless necessary to maintain temperatures.
- Always keep bottled water available.
- Buy dry ice, if available.
You should store one gallon of water per person per day to have on hand. Put food into coolers with ice packs when the electricity is off.
Solar Panels in California
One way to prepare for a power outage is by installing solar panels. Solar panels in Los Angeles allow homeowners to become energy independent, meaning you won’t have to worry about power outages cutting your access to electricity. During high demand periods on the electricity grid, you won’t be subject to a reduced energy supply or rate spikes related to peak demand.
In addition to the independence, homeowners can expect to reduce their electricity bill by as much as half. Installation can also increase the value of your home.
Solar panels also help reduce your carbon footprint, allowing you to play a part in fighting climate change.
Home Generators in California
Another way to prepare for a power outage is by purchasing a home generator in Los Angeles. When a blackout occurs, sophisticated generators turn on automatically, and if properly sized to the house a generator can power most, if not all, of your electrical equipment. Once the power outage finishes, generators will automatically turn off.
If you plan on using a generator, make sure to place it away from doors and windows.
Planning for a Wildfire and Extreme Heat
If you ever need to evacuate Los Angeles because of a wildfire or extreme heat, there are important steps you need to take to prepare.
Wildfire Preparation
Wildfires can be devastating for homes, the surrounding areas, and the people affected. Below are some simple steps you can take before the event of a wildfire occurs:
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters, eaves, porches, and decks to help keep your home from igniting
- Screen or box-in areas below porches or decks to prevent debris from accumulating, which could catch on fire.
- Because wildfires can spread to tree tops, you should prune trees in your area to keep the lowest branches at about 6-10 feet high.
- Water your lawn frequently to keep it hydrated and prevent it from catching fire easily.
- Slightly drain swimming pools 6-12 inches to prevent flooding.
- Create an emergency plan such as building a first aid kit, creating an evacuation plan, and collecting important phone numbers.
Getting Ready for Extreme Heat
Due to the effects of climate change, temperatures in western states, including California, have been significantly rising. These extreme conditions can pose threats to vulnerable populations and give discomfort to most. Below are tips and information regarding what you can do during these times.
- If possible, stay in an air conditioned, indoor location.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Take cool showers to help cool down.
- Limit your outdoor activity, especially during midday when the temperatures can be highest.
- Wear and reapply sunscreen frequently to avoid sunburns.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing.
Regulated Electricity in California
California is a de-regulated electricity state, but in Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power is the sole electric company servicing the city. In states such as Texas, where all cities are de-regulated, customers have a choice of energy providers such as Cirro Energy, Gexa Energy, Reliant Energy, Chariot Energy and Amigo Energy to provide competitive electricity plans and rates.
Power Outage Maps for Los Angeles
City Power Outage Map |
Transmission & Distribution Utility (TDU) Servicing City |
| Los Angeles Outage Map | Los Angeles Department of Water and Power |
