Wildfire and Public Safety Power Shutoff Preparedness
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties from 4 AM on Wednesday until 6 PM on Thursday. The forecast weather includes Santa Ana winds of 45-60 MPH, with gusts up to 60-80 MPH in the mountains and foothills, and humidity levels of 8-15 percent by Wednesday afternoon. Based on this forecast, the University is preparing the Malibu campus accordingly. You may see things like the removal of umbrellas and patio furniture this afternoon among other preparations. Additionally, remember to drive safely, watch for blown debris, and approach non-functional traffic lights as all way stop signs.
All classes and normal operations on all southern California campuses are expected to continue this week. Pepperdine’s Emergency Operations Committee (EOC) is closely monitoring the situation and, if conditions change, will communicate with the Pepperdine community with additional information and instructions. Be mindful of impacts to campus events, many of which may need to move inside, and check with event planners for details.
During Red Flag conditions, Southern California Edison (SCE) may implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), a preemptive power outage in an effort to prevent starting a wildfire. This may result in the temporary loss of power for a Pepperdine campus. More information on PSPS and preparation tips can be found here.
In the event of a wildfire, the Pepperdine EOC may activate the University’s Shelter-In-Place plans for the Malibu campus, in which the Pepperdine community stays on campus in designated buildings equipped with shelter, food, water, and medical and counseling services. This plan, approved annually by the LA County Fire Department, has effectively protected the Pepperdine community during past wildfires.
For further information on Red Flag Warnings and Pepperdine’s wildfire response plans, please visit the University’s Emergency Information Page.
Pepperdine Emergency Information 