Critical fire weather arrives in Northern California's interior; PG&E cuts power to 8,400 customers

Gusty winds and low humidity have brought a high risk of wildfires to the interior of Northern California. Pacific Gas & Electric proactively cut electricity early Wednesday to approximately 8,400 customers in small parts of eight counties, mostly in the western Sacramento Valley. Forecasters say red flag warnings for critical fire danger will remain in effect until 8 p.m. in much of the valley and adjacent areas to the west. Public safety power shutoffs are intended to prevent fires from starting when power lines are downed by winds or struck by falling trees or windblown debris. California has so far avoided widespread wildfires this year.