How Wildfires Affect Power Outages in the U.S.

Wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense across the U.S., and their impact reaches far beyond the immediate flames. One of the most widespread and disruptive consequences is the power outages they cause, whether from damaged infrastructure, preemptive utility shutoffs, or overwhelmed emergency systems. Understanding how wildfires affect the power grid is crucial for homeowners and communities alike, as it highlights the growing need for reliable backup power solutions to stay safe, connected, and prepared during these high-risk events.

When and Where Do Wildfires Happen in the U.S.?

Wildfire season traditionally runs from spring through fall, peaking in the summer months between June and August. However, changes in climate have extended this season, with fires now occurring earlier and lasting longer. The western regions of the United States experience the most wildfires due to dry conditions and dense forests. But other areas, such as the Southeast and Northeast, are also seeing increased wildfire activity.

Regions most affected include:

• Western States: California, Oregon, Washington, and Colorado experience frequent and severe wildfires due to dry climates and dense forests.
• Southwestern States: Arizona and New Mexico face high fire risks, especially during dry spells.
• Southeastern States: Florida and Georgia encounter wildfires, often exacerbated by human activities and lightning strikes.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), "The U.S. has witnessed a steady increase in wildfire activity over the past decade, and experts predict this trend will continue."

U.S. Wildfire Trends Over the Years

Wildfires have become more frequent, unpredictable, and severe over the past two decades. Since 2003, extreme wildfires have more than doubled in frequency and size globally. The western U.S. is one of the regions most affected by this increase, with some areas experiencing two more months of fire weather now than fifty years ago. Many researchers attribute this trend to climate change, citing hotter temperatures and drier conditions, making it easier for fires to start and spread.

The increase in wildfires is also more damaging than ever before. Research by NOAA shows that land area burned in the U.S. during wildfires has doubled over the past few decades and is projected to increase by an astonishing range of 30% up to 600% per year over the next few decades. This means that more people in the U.S. will be directly or indirectly affected by wildfires each year, and for longer periods of time.

Understanding Power Outages During Wildfires

Homes directly impacted by wildfires are either partially or completely in the path of fire, leading to property damage and loss. However, even if a person’s home isn't directly in the path of fire, they can still experience major disruptions due to infrastructure damage in wildfire affected areas, including disruptions to power infrastructure.

During wildfires, there are two main causes of power outages:

1. Extreme Weather: Power grids can be directly affected by high winds and growing wildfires
2. Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS): Utility companies sometimes shut off power to prevent electrical equipment from starting fires – especially during high winds and dry conditions – leading to extended power outages. While inconvenient, these planned outages are necessary to reduce the risk of additional fire activity starting from damaged live powerlines or spark-causing debris flying onto powerlines. Depending on the situation, PSPS can last from several hours to multiple days.

As wildfire activities continue to grow, so too do weather-related power outages, as well as public safety power shutoffs (PSPS). For example, during the January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, 4 million people were affected by widespread power outages, and PSPS averaged two days in affected areas.

The Importance of Backup Power

Having a backup power source is crucial during days-long extended outages. Portable generators and inverter generators are lifelines during these times, keeping essential appliances such as refrigerators, medical devices, and communication equipment running. Unlike solar-powered generators, which produce less energy when there’s wildfire smoke and haze in the air, these options are not reliant on sunlight and clear skies.

Without reliable backup power options, families can face food spoilage, unsafe indoor temperatures, loss of connectivity, and serious health risks, especially in emergencies. Generators help maintain safety, comfort, and normalcy until power is restored.

How GenTent Protects Backup Power

While generators are life-saving devices, they come with their own set of risks. Generators can produce lethal levels of carbon monoxide (CO) in minutes, so they must be run outside. Since generators have exposed electrical panels, moisture from rain, aerial fire-fighting efforts, and more can lead to damage or electrical sparks. During wildfire season, running a generator outdoors also exposes it to falling ash, embers, and smoke particles that can clog air intakes and damage internal components.

Using a generator during wildfire-related power outages is often necessary; but running it safely is just as critical. That’s where GenTent comes in. Our NFPA-rated, fire-retardant generator tents are made from non-combustible materials, aligning with FEMA’s wildfire safety best practices. GenTent protects generator owners from carbon monoxide exposure, electrical hazards, and wildfire debris-related generator damage; ensuring backup power stays reliable in any weather, and when it’s needed the most.