Californians Suffer Unprecedented Fire Blackouts in January
- Strong winds forecast to hit southern part of the state
- Utilities have begun cutting power to help prevent wildfires
Photographer: David McNew/Getty Images
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California utilities started cutting power to residents to prevent wildfires in an unprecedented move for this time of year.
The measure is designed to prevent live wires from sparking blazes as high winds are set to sweep through the drought-weary state amid summer-like temperatures. More than 290,000 homes and business are at risk of losing electricity, utilities said.