NORTH STATE, California – The Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) initiated the Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) on Tuesday, forcing the company to shut off power in 17 counties and 4 tribal areas.

Butte, Tehama, Glenn, Colusa and Plumas counties were all on the list of areas without power. The event mainly takes place in rural areas where there is a fire risk.

Places with lots of forest, vegetation and land are at risk and as experts monitor weather conditions, it is considered safer in some forecasts to turn off power lines as this could cause a wildfire.

About 22,000 customers will be without power Wednesday, but can resort to one of the many information centers placed by PG&E throughout California.

Every county should have a local community center where they can access Wi-Fi, blankets, snacks, water and other essentials. They can even charge their electronics and ask about power outage plans in their area.

Paul Moreno, a company spokesman, said all power should be restored by Thursday evening. While this news is expected to be a relief to customers, the company reminds everyone that each province will vary and some provinces will receive electricity faster than others.

For more information, people can visit the PG&E website.