'Inconsistent and unreliable': Mendocino County officials rip PG&E for outages

Mendocino County has been without power since Saturday. Mendocino County has been without power since Saturday. Photo: MediaNews Group/The Mercury News/MediaNews Group Via Getty Images Photo: MediaNews Group/The Mercury News/MediaNews Group Via Getty Images Image 1 of / 34 Caption Close 'Inconsistent and unreliable': Mendocino County officials rip PG&E for outages 1 / 34 Back to Gallery

Furious Mendocino County officials are criticizing PG&E for its communication — or apparent lack thereof — during days-long power outages.

Nearly all of Mendocino County is experiencing its fourth day without power after blackouts, prompted by high winds and dangerous fire conditions, began on Oct. 26. Another power shut-off is occurring today throughout Northern California, although for Mendocino residents, it's become simply a continuation of their existing outage.

According to a press release from Mendocino County, damage to two PG&E transmission lines prevented power from being restored in between the two shut-offs.

The power-less situation has prompted outrage from the area.

"I don’t believe anything PGE reports right now," Mendocino County CEO Carmel Angelo posted on the county's Facebook page. "Everything they told us was inaccurate. They have good staff (Alison Talbot) as liaisons but they don’t empower or inform their liaisons. PGE is creating a public health emergency for the people in Northern California. Something MUST be done before someone dies due to PSPS (Public Safety Power Shutoff)."

"Zero county residents were restored between PSPS events," Mendocino County Supervisor Ted Williams wrote on Facebook. "Faulty and ambiguous information has continued to flow from the utility. My current guestimate for restoration is Thursday with potential for further delay."

Williams' sentiments were echoed in an official press release issued by the city of Ukiah on Tuesday:

"Information from PG&E has been inconsistent and unreliable," it reads. "While the City continues to pass on information as it is received, we appreciate the frustration with the lack of detail regarding power restoration. Please be assured that City and County staff are working around the clock to keep other essential services operating while pressuring PG&E for information and expedited restoration."

PG&E is expecting to issue an "all clear" about 8 a.m. Wednesday. At that point, crews can inspect lines for damage and make repairs, if needed. Once that process is completed, residents will have their power restored. PG&E says this process can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours.

Full PG&E outage coverage:

- Here's when and where PG&E will shut off power starting Tuesday

- How long does my food stay safe after the power goes out?

- Wind event: Strongest gusts forecast for the North Bay Tuesday night

- PG&E shares crater again; Newsom asks Buffett to buy utility

- Here’s why PG&E doesn’t put more power lines underground

Katie Dowd is an SFGATE Senior Digital Manager. Contact: katie.dowd@sfgate.com