PG&E repairman. (Source: Shutterstock)
While the lights have been out for less than 24 hours at many California counties where some credit unions have been forced to close branches or offer limited services, credit unions seem to be prepared for the power outages that may last for days.
To protect public safety, the state's largest utility Pacific Gas & Electric turned off the power at midnight Wednesday for 34 counties and more than two million customers because of gusty winds and dry conditions that could snap or break live power lines and spark wildfires.
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Last year, power lines brought down or damaged by high winds ignited 13 wildfires, according to national media reports.
PG&E said the power outages could last for several days even after weather conditions improve. That's because it will take some time for PG&E crews to painstakingly inspect all of power lines and equipment and make any necessary repairs before restoring power to consumers and businesses. Those inspections can only be conducted during daylight hours.
Diana Dykstra, president/CEO of the California Credit Union League, noted larger credit unions have backup power for their branches and other offices, but she was not certain how long they can sustain operations if these outages last for 10 days. Nevertheless, she also said credit unions will activate their disaster recovery plans that have processes to serve all of their members off-line.
Credit unions such as the $12.5 billion First Tech Federal Credit Union in San Jose and the $7.4 billion Patelco Credit Union in Pleasanton, have each closed one branch Thursday, while the $385 million First U.S. Community Credit Union in Sacramento shut down two branches.
The $4.6 billion Redwood Credit Union in Santa Rosa reported that it has limited services at the Sonoma branch though its ATMs are available, but three other ATM locations were not operating.
Redwood reminded members that they can still access many fee-free ATMs and that the credit union will reimburse members for any out-of-network ATMs fees.
The power outages are not expected to affect mobile or online banking services.
Many credit unions have been posting updates on their websites and social media pages to inform members about branch closures or ATM availability.
Patelco CU sent an email to all of its members and produced a video on YouTube offering advice and tips.
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Peter Strozniak
Credit Union Times reporter covering credit union operations, fraud, M&As, leagues, business continuity, and breaking news.
