Category: Archived

Main campus power outage

There is a power outage on the main Stanford campus due to a PG&E transmission problem. Work is underway to transfer power delivery to a secondary PG&E line, which we expect will occur soon. Additional information will be posted on this site as it becomes available.

Potential for Rotating Power Outages Continues

ALERTSU: PG&E has again announced the possibility of rotating power outages today between 4 and 9 p.m. Stanford’s main campus again is not affected, but a portion of Stanford Redwood City could be affected.

Conservation efforts prevented major outages on Tuesday. Once again today, a Flex Alert is in effect from 4 to 9 p.m., and everyone is encouraged to conserve energy during this period to help prevent rotating outages from occurring.

For continuing updates on the possibility of rotating outages during this week’s heat wave, consult the PG&E website. You can verify if your address is scheduled for a planned outage on this PG&E page: https://www.pge.com/en_US/residential/outages/planning-and-preparedness/safety-and-preparedness/find-your-rotating-outage-block/find-your-rotating-outage-block.page#find-your-block-for-rotating-outage.

Information and resources on navigating the current heat wave remain available at https://emergency.stanford.edu.

Potential for Rotating Outages Continues

PG&E has again announced the possibility of rotating power outages today between 4 and 9 p.m. Stanford’s main campus again is not affected, but a portion of Stanford Redwood City could be affected.

Conservation efforts prevented major outages on Tuesday. Once again today, a Flex Alert is in effect from 4 to 9 p.m., and everyone is encouraged to conserve energy during this period to help prevent rotating outages from occurring.

For continuing updates on the possibility of rotating outages during this week’s heat wave, consult the PG&E website. You can verify if your address is scheduled for a planned outage on this PG&E page.

Rotating Power Outages Possible in Region

ALERTSU: PG&E has announced the possibility of rotating power outages today (Tuesday, Sept. 6) between 4 and 9 p.m. Stanford’s main campus is not affected by any of these planned outages; however, it appears that Stanford Redwood City could be affected. Rotating outages are subject to change and can be expanded, canceled or postponed depending on conservation efforts.

Verify if your address is scheduled for a planned outage at the PG&E website.: https://www.pge.com/en_US/residential/outages/planning-and-preparedness/safety-and-preparedness/find-your-rotating-outage-block/find-your-rotating-outage-block.page

Rotating Outages Possible in Region

PG&E has announced the possibility of rotating power outages today (Tuesday, Sept. 6) between 4 and 9 p.m. Stanford’s main campus is not affected by any of these planned outages; however, it appears that Stanford Redwood City could be affected. Rotating outages are subject to change and can be expanded, canceled or postponed depending on conservation efforts.

Verify if your address is scheduled for a planned outage at the PG&E website.

Heat wave tips and respite areas available

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for much of California, beginning Saturday morning and continuing through Tuesday evening.

While the regional heat wave will most severely impact inland areas of the state, the potential for widespread strain on the power grid has resulted in a State of Emergency declaration for the California power grid, including a warning of the possibility of rolling blackouts. While rolling blackouts are possible, this is unlikely to affect campus, barring a very large-scale grid event.

University staff are taking measures to prepare campus for this coming heat wave and will remain informed on potential impacts to campus. You are encouraged to take steps to prepare – whether you are on campus or elsewhere. Visit emergency.stanford.edu for preparedness tips and information on respite spaces.

Heat wave tips and respite areas available

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for much of California, beginning Saturday morning and continuing through Tuesday evening.

While the regional heat wave will most severely impact inland areas of the state, the potential for widespread strain on the power grid has resulted in a State of Emergency declaration for the California power grid, including a warning of the possibility of rolling blackouts. While rolling blackouts are possible, this is unlikely to affect campus, barring a very large-scale grid event.

University staff are taking measures to prepare campus for this coming heat wave and will remain informed on potential impacts to campus. You are encouraged to take steps to prepare – whether you are on campus or elsewhere.

Prepare for power outages

• Keep your cellular phone and electronic devices charged, have a solar charger or backup battery handy.
• Have battery operated flashlights ready, do not use candles as they are not permitted in student residences due to their inherent fire hazard.
• Know evacuation routes from your residence, office or laboratory. Know how to locate the nearest exit.
• Unplug or turn off personal electric and heat-producing appliances and equipment that could be a fire hazard when power is restored.
• Place extra ice packs in your freezer to preserve food, a full freezer will stay cold longer.

For additional guidance on power outages at Stanford, visit https://cardinalready.stanford.edu/emergency/power-outage/
For general outage information and to register for outage alerts where you live and work, visit https://pgealerts.alerts.pge.com/outagecenter/

Conserve electricity – particularly during the hours of 4 to 9 p.m. when the power grid is stressed the most.

• Pre-cool your home, charge electric vehicles and run appliances early in the day
• Set thermostat to 78°F or higher if health permits
• Avoid using major appliances where possible
• Turn off unnecessary lights
• Use fans for cooling
• Unplug unused personal items

Learn more about California Flex Alerts and sign up for notifications at https://www.flexalert.org/

Stay safe in the heat

• Drink plenty of water and fluids with electrolytes. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugar, as they contribute to dehydration.
• Limit physical activity – avoid activity during the hottest time of the day, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Wear cool clothing – lightweight, light, colored, and loose-fitting clothing can help keep you cool.
• Wear a hat and sunscreen when outdoors
• Rest often in shade areas – find shade to cool down when outdoors
• Check on frail, elderly or at risk family, friends, and neighbors
• During peak heat hours, stay in an air conditioned area, whenever possible
  • On campus – use common areas and respite spaces on campus if your living or work area is not equipped with air conditioning.
  • In Santa Clara County – find available cooling centers at https://emergencymanagement.sccgov.org/residents/hot-weather-safety
  • In San Mateo County – find cooling centers in Redwood City at https://www.redwoodcity.org/residents/public-safety/cooling-centers

In the event of a power outage or other emergency at Stanford, visit emergency.stanford.edu for updates.

Power fully restored

Repairs to power line continue

Repairs to the power line feeding Green Library East and the adjacent Coupa Cafe are continuing today. We expect to restore power to these areas by the end of the day and will provide an update when power is restored.

Main campus power restoration underway

University staff have identified and isolated the fault in the main campus power system to a line feeding Green Library East and the adjacent Coupa Cafe. Power has been restored to all buildings that were affected by today’s outage, with the exception of Green Library East and the adjacent Coupa Cafe. Repairs to the affected line are underway, and an update will be provided as soon as the remaining building is brought back online. 

Thank you for your patience while we worked through the outage today.

Teams working to identify power system fault

Teams are working to identify the location of an underground fault within the main campus power system. Once identified, they hope to bring some buildings back online, however no timeline for power restoration is available right now.

Please continue to check back regularly for updates.

University staff working to resolve partial power outage

University staff are working to resolve the partial power outage on the main campus, however they do not yet have an expected time of power restoration. The outage is within the campus power infrastructure and is not related to the recent PG&E outage that had previously affected the campus.

We have notified participants of classes, conferences and camps scheduled in the affected buildings of any location or schedule changes as needed. 

Green Library West (Bing Wing) is powered and remains open to patrons through the Bing Wing entrance. Green Library East, the East Asia Library (Lathrop Building) and Stanford Auxiliary Libraries (SAL) 1 and 2, are closed for the day.

We will continue to provide updates as soon as they become available.

Buildings affected by power outage

Click for full size map

Below is a list of buildings currently affected by the partial power outage on the main Stanford campus. Certain facilities may be operating on generator power.

Art Gallery
Hoover Memorial
Traitel Building
Green Library East Wing
Coupa Café Coffee Kiosk
Taube Tennis South
Burnham Pavilion
Lathrop Library
Littlefield Center
Knight Building
DWC Memorial
Arrillaga Alumni Center
Frost Amphitheater
Bing Concert Hall
327 Bonair Siding
333 Bonair Siding
340 Bonair Siding
341 Bonair Siding
Stanford Recycling Office
Grounds Locker Room
Grounds & Labor Breakroom
O&M
Fire & Police
Arrillaga Gym & Weight Room
Maples Pavilion
Arrillaga Sports Center
Avery Aquatic Center
Taube Tennis Stadium
Field Hockey Bleachers
Softball Field House
Arrillaga Beach Volleyball Court
Boyd & Jill Smith Family Stadium
Master’s Grove
Varsity Tennis Courts
Angell Field South
Angell Field North
Housing & Dining Services (Main Office)
Stanford Auxiliary Library
PSSI Office and Garage

Power outage affecting part of the main campus

A power outage is affecting a portion of the main Stanford campus this morning. Among the affected buildings are many in the athletics area; Green and Lathrop libraries; Hoover Institution; Arrillaga Alumni Center; Littlefield Center; and Bonair Siding facilities. No student residences are currently believed to be affected.

The cause of the outage is being investigated. There is no estimated time of restoration, but it is possible that it will take several hours. Employees and supervisors in affected facilities should be in touch regarding work plans for the day. Additional information will be provided on the emergency.stanford.edu website when it is available.

Status message

There is currently no emergency situation at Stanford.

Power being restored to remaining main campus buildings

PG&E continues to work on the Jefferson line that supplies power to the main Stanford campus. They have also been able to supply the campus with additional energy to the line currently supplying our backup power, allowing the process of full power restoration to begin. Those on the main campus should see power returning to buildings incrementally throughout the day. As this occurs, crews are also performing building assessments to ensure that building systems return to operation as they should.

Summer Session classes will resume on Monday; students should look for information from their instructors for any updates on their course. Normal campus operations and programs will be resuming as staffing allows. Main-campus employees on Monday should resume the work routines they had in place before the power disruption. Labs may reopen once normal power is restored; please consult with your local building managers.

When returning to housing and work stations, please remember to ensure cooking and heating appliances are safely turned off, and check for any equipment that may not be functioning properly. Food in refrigerators and freezers may be spoiled – discard any perishable food. Those in research spaces should similarly check for any heating or heat-producing equipment that may have been left in the on position and survey workspaces.

We want to thank the members of our campus community for your patience over the past days, and extend special appreciation to the incredible groups of university staff who have worked tirelessly to restore power, support students living on campus and uphold research. Many members of the university staff have dedicated the past few days to working long hours with very little rest to provide support for the campus community, and their efforts are deeply appreciated.

PG&E working to repair line supplying main campus

PG&E is working on repairs to its damaged equipment. We are cautiously optimistic, but cannot be certain, that full power will be restored to the main campus by this weekend. This timing could change. We hope to have more accurate information from PG&E by midday Friday.

Once PG&E does restore the power supply to the main campus, it can also take several hours to safely re-energize campus facilities. We do not expect resumption of full campus activities until Monday at earliest.

Until full power restoration, university staff will continue to maximize the use of available power to support high-priority buildings and services for students on campus.

Please continue to check this site for updates as they become available. We thank those on campus for their continuing energy conservation and patience.

Main campus continues to operate under partial power

The limited power supply being provided to the main campus by PG&E is currently unchanged and university staff continues to focus their efforts on powering high-priority buildings.

As PG&E has not provided an estimate for full power restoration, we ask that those on campus continue to conserve energy where possible. Please do not enter buildings that are dark. It is also important not to enter buildings that are not open for occupancy, even if the power appears to be on.

As announced last night, Residential and Dining Enterprises and Student Affairs have expanded their support services for students on campus and have opened additional respite areas.

Prioritizing available power, supporting students on campus

During the power recovery process, health and safety, critical infrastructure, research continuity and student residences will continue to take priority.

University staff has been working diligently to maximize the use of the limited power supply that is being provided by PG&E. As powering hospital and critical infrastructure has stabilized, we have been able to use the remaining available power to bring additional high-priority buildings back on-line. Power to more student residences has been restored, although this still falls well short of a full campus restoration. Although PG&E continues working to repair the lines feeding the main campus, it is unlikely that we will see a full power restoration imminently.

Due to the nature of the campus electrical circuits, you may see some lower priority buildings on-line because they function on a circuit that also serves a higher-priority building. It is important to remember that we still do not have enough available power to re-energize the entire campus. Those in powered buildings are asked to conserve energy wherever possible.

Some facilities near the main campus have been unaffected because they are on different power circuits than the main campus.

Residential and Dining Enterprises and Student Affairs are working to expand university support for students on campus while awaiting full power restoration to student residences.

Respite spaces are currently open. Please consider avoiding meal hours unless you are eating.

Arrillaga Family Dining Commons (AFDC)

• OPEN: 24 hours per day

Tresidder Memorial, 2nd Floor Lobby

• OPEN: 7:30am – 4:30pm

EVGR Pavilion

• OPEN: 8:00am – 1:00am

Graduate Community Center

• OPEN: 24 hours per day

Munger, Jacobson-Sorensen Hall, Lobby

• OPEN: 8:00am – 1:00am

For those experiencing cellular coverage issues but are in buildings with power, calling over wi-fi is an option to make and receive calls: https://uit.stanford.edu/service/mobiledevice/wificalling

Flashlights are available. If you have not yet picked one up, flashlights are available at the Undergraduate (Flo Mo & Wilbur) and extended-hour Graduate Housing Service Centers (EVGR-B, Kennedy, Munger).

For general questions that can wait, UNDERGRADS can submit a Service Now Ticket.

For GRADUATE students, their spouse/partner, and families living in graduate housing, please email graduatelifeoffice@stanford.edu.

For CAMPS and CONFERENCES, please call 650-723-3126 or email conferenceinquiries@lists.stanford.edu.

For high school students and undergrad visitors, please email: summersession@stanford.edu.

R&DE Housing Service Centers

If you are locked out or have other housing-related questions, the following R&DE Housing Service Centers are open and staffed:

Undergraduate

• Flo Mo and Wilbur (8:00am-6:00pm)

Graduate

• All Grad Housing Service Centers open (9:00am-4:30pm)
• EVGR-B, Kennedy & Munger have extended hours (9:00am-6:00pm)

After hours: Community Access Response Enterprise (CARE) will still be able to provide lock-out service. Call 650-725-1602 (please be patient if they are busy).

Medication/Critical Refrigeration Needs

If you have items like medication and breastmilk (AFDC only) that must be refrigerated, there is limited availability at:

• Vaden (medication only) [9am-5pm, M-F]
• Arrillaga Family Dining Center (AFDC) [24/7] *Only location accepting breastmilk
• Wilbur Dining Hall
• Florence Moore Dining

Please make sure it is properly labeled and bring your SUID/courtesy card/Government-issued identification.

• Medication or Breastmilk placed in a bag labeled with your name (and the name of anyone authorized to pick it up)
• Stanford ID or government identification required for drop-off and pick-up verification
• Drop off & pick up available during open service hours only
• Please ask for the Manager on Duty to arrange this service

MEDICAL EMERGENCIES OR CRISIS

All Students & Conferees – for life safety emergencies call 911

Undergrads

Matriculated Stanford students can also call the RD on call: 650-504-8022. Please note you can leave a voicemail if there is not an immediate answer. Please leave details about the best way to reach you.

Summer Session visiting students can also call 650-723-3109.

Graduate Housing

Anyone living in graduate housing can contact the Graduate Life Office Dean on Call.

You may call or text our 24/7 pager: https://glo.stanford.edu/glo-services/crisis-assistance. Please leave your name, contact info and the reason for your call.

Camps and Conferences

Please call 650-723-3126 (24/7)

Main campus power disruption continues, classes canceled, remote work encouraged

Although PG&E has not provided an update to power restoration, we are preparing for the possibility that it may take days. PG&E continues to provide a limited supply of power through a secondary line, but not enough to support the normal needs of the campus, especially during hot weather. This limited supply is dedicated to supporting the highest-priority needs, including the hospital and critical infrastructure on campus. Allocation of resources for research continuity remains a priority; however, researchers should continue to refrain from performing any non-critical activities on the main campus.

Given the increasing possibility of a multiple-day disruption and the time required to re-start classrooms and equipment even once power is restored, summer session classes are canceled for Thursday and Friday, June 23-24. Conference activities are being held in alternative spaces. Bing Nursery School, Madera Grove, CCSC and Stock Farm Road childcare facilities will also be closed for the rest of the week.

The health, safety and academic pursuits of our students remains a top priority. The university is working on plans for academic continuity and continued residential care for students living on campus. More information will be forthcoming. Respite spaces with cooling and charging continue to be available to students at Arrillaga Family Dining Commons and EVGR Pavilion.

Employees who work on the main Stanford campus are encouraged to work from home for the remainder of the week, if feasible. Employees with responsibilities that require them to be on campus should report as usual. Operations at Stanford Redwood City, SLAC and the Stanford Research Park are not affected and are continuing as usual.

For those living or working on campus, we remind you to please continue to conserve power wherever possible and take steps to ensure you care for yourself – drink plenty of water, use the available areas of respite when necessary and check back regularly for updates. Thank you for your continuing patience while we work through this disruption.

Updates on Dining and Marguerite Service

A reminder for students living on campus, that meals and respite spaces with air conditioning and outlets to charge electronics are available:

• Arrillaga Family Dining Commons – area of respite (24 hours per day) and dining
  • Complimentary snacks and beverages 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
  • Power strips for charging and wifi available
  • Serving meals for students only
    • Breakfast 7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
    • Lunch 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    • Dinner 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
• EVGR Pavilion and EVGR Pub – area of respite (8 a.m. – 1 a.m.)
  • Complimentary snacks and beverages 9 p.m. – 1 a.m.
  • Power strips for charging and wifi available

Marguerite Shuttle lines X, Y, P & C are operating a reduced schedule and run approximately every 20 minutes. All other routes are operating on their normal schedule.

Green and branch libraries on the main campus are closed.

The Cantor Arts Center and the Anderson Collection are closed.

Main campus power updates as of Wednesday morning

Due to yesterday’s fire in the Emerald Hills area, the main Stanford campus lost the power supplied by PG&E’s main transmission line to the campus. PG&E is providing a limited supply of power through a secondary line, but it falls far short of the normal needs of the campus. This limited supply is being used to maintain cooling for the hospital and other critical infrastructure on campus. In addition, some student residences and other buildings are operating on backup generator power. Work continues to shift the limited power supply on the main campus to the highest-priority needs.

PG&E indicates that it has identified the problem and is working on repairs, but there remains no estimated time of restoration.

Impact to campus also includes (not a complete list):

• Cancellation of summer session classes, conferences and day camps for Wednesday, June 22.
• Bing Nursery School, Madera Grove, CCSC and Stock Farm Road childcare facilities are closed.
• Cellular service is impacted in some areas of campus.
• Impact to information systems are available from University IT at https://uit.stanford.edu/service-alerts/several-services-impacted-data-center-power-outage
• The AOERC (including the Avery Rec Pool) and ACSR are closed, all main campus recreational classes are cancelled. The Redwood City Recreation and Wellness Center remains open.
• Chilled water production is occurring, but the ability to supply it to individual buildings remains very limited due to lack of available power. Researchers should wait until further notice to perform any non-critical activities.
• Green and branch libraries on the main campus are closed.

At this time, all underground garages are open. Use caution in areas where lighting is low.

For students living on campus, we will continue to provide meals and respite spaces today where students can access air conditioning and charge electronics.

•  Arrillaga Family Dining Commons – area of respite (24 hours per day) and dining
  • Complimentary snacks and beverages 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
  • Power strips for charging and wifi available
  • Serving meals for students only
    • Breakfast 7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
    • Lunch 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
    • Dinner 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
• EVGR Pavilion and EVGR Pub – area of respite (8 a.m. – 1 a.m.)
  • Complimentary snacks and beverages 9 p.m. – 1 a.m.
  • Power strips for charging and wifi available

Temperatures in the Stanford area are forecast to reach 90 plus degrees this afternoon. Tips for managing the heat include:

• Drink plenty of water: Drink water even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine or lots of sugar because they will speed up fluid loss.
• Limit physical activity: Avoid physical activity during the hottest time of the day.
• Stay in air-conditioned areas, whenever possible. Use the areas of respite available on campus.
• Wear cool clothing: Lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing can help you keep cool. Cotton clothes are good because they let sweat evaporate.
• When outdoors, wear sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Rest often in shady areas.

Hospital operations and the health and safety of those residing on campus remains our top priority. We continue to encourage staff who can work from home to remain off the main campus. This allows campus staff to conserve power for students living on campus, essential services, and critical infrastructure.

Classes, day camps cancelled Wednesday, June 22

There is no change to the status of the power outage on campus. PG&E has not provided an estimated time of power restoration, due to damage to their equipment located in the fire area near Emerald Hills.

Employees who work on the main Stanford campus are encouraged to work from home tomorrow, Wednesday, June 22, if feasible. Employees with responsibilities that require them to be on campus should report as usual. Operations at Stanford Redwood City, SLAC and the Stanford Research Park are not affected and should continue as usual.

Summer session classes, conferences, and day camps are cancelled for Wednesday, June 22. Madera Grove, CCSC and Stock Farm Road childcare facilities will be closed.

Arrillaga Family Dining Commons is open as a respite space for students until 3 a.m. tonight. Cold beverages, snacks and power outlets for charging electronics will be available. The EVGR Pavilion will be open as a respite space until 1 a.m. Portable light stations are being moved into several student residential areas to provide additional outdoor lighting.

Parking garages are closed until at least tomorrow morning due to dark conditions. Marguerite shuttles will be in service tomorrow.

Next update is anticipated after approximately 10:00AM Wednesday, June 22.

Update on power outage

The power outage is affecting many parts of the Peninsula area and is believed to be associated with the Edgewood Fire burning in the Emerald Hills area. Cellular service is also affected in some parts of campus.

PG&E has not provided an estimated time of restoration, and those on campus should prepare for the possibility of being without power for several hours.

Flashlights are being distributed to student residences that do not have generator power, and are also available at the areas of respite (Arrillaga Family Dining Commons and EVGR Pavilion). Be aware that some parking areas and walkways may lack lighting after dark.

Any students requiring assistance after-hours should call the after-hours helpline at (650) 725-1602. If you are a visitor attending a conference on campus and require assistance, contact (650) 723-3126.

Level 4c chilled water curtailment remains in effect. Some power has been restored to cooling equipment for the hospital and other critical infrastructure.

Next update is anticipated after approximately 8:00PM.

Power outage map, evacuation information

Many parts of the Peninsula are affected by the ongoing power outage. View the PG&E outage map.

For those that live near the fire area, visit community.zonehaven.com for evacuation information and follow @CALFIRECZU for fire updates.

Update on power outage

Limited backup power is in use. Level 4c chilled water curtailment is in effect, and efforts to restore cooling equipment for critical infrastructure are underway. There is no ETA for restoration of power to the greater campus area. Smoke from nearby fires may be visible from campus, but there is no threat to campus at this time.

If the outage persists, card access doors may power down and lock automatically. Staff is currently working to re-key the main entrance to each student residence building so room or apartment keys will provide access.

Arrillaga Family Dining Commons and EVGR Pavilion are open and available for those seeking an area of respite.

Student food service is limited to Wilbur Dining, Florence Moore (Flo Mo) and Arrillaga Family Dining Commons. Service will end at 8:00PM.

Next update is anticipated at approximately 6:00PM.

Smoke visible, no threat to campus

Smoke from nearby fires may be visible from the Stanford campus, but is no threat to the campus at this time.

Power Outage

A power outage is affecting many parts of the Stanford campus. One of the main PG&E transmission lines feeding the campus is reportedly down. Efforts are under way to try to transfer power to an alternate line. No ETA at this time. Prepare for chilled water curtailment.

CORRECTION: Inadvertent posting

ALERTSU: A test message was inadvertently posted around noon regarding air quality on campus. Please disregard.

Poor air quality in Bay Area

Smoke from wildfires is affecting air quality and visibility in the Bay Area. Smoke conditions are fluctuating but at times have been creating an unhealthy atmosphere for outdoor activities for some groups. Please take precautions for your personal health as appropriate. A full set of information and resources is available on the Environmental Health & Safety website at https://ehs.stanford.edu/wildfire-smoke.

You can find the latest air quality readings, as measured at the nearest official monitoring station, at the airnow.gov website, with the current reading for Stanford here.

Poor air quality persists in Bay Area

Smoke from wildfires is continuing to affect air quality and visibility in the Bay Area. Smoke conditions are fluctuating but at many times have been creating an unhealthy atmosphere for outdoor activities. Please take precautions for your personal health as appropriate. A full set of information and resources is available on the Environmental Health & Safety website at https://ehs.stanford.edu/wildfire-smoke.

You can find the latest air quality readings, as measured at the nearest official monitoring station, at the airnow.gov website, with the current reading for Stanford here.

Resources on wildfire smoke, air quality

Smoke from wildfires is continuing to affect air quality and visibility in the Bay Area. Current smoke conditions are mostly high in the atmosphere, blocking sunlight, not low to the ground. Please continue to take precautions for your personal health as appropriate. A full set of information and resources is available on the Environmental Health & Safety website at https://ehs.stanford.edu/wildfire-smoke.

You can find the latest air quality readings on the ground, as measured at the nearest official monitoring station, at the airnow.gov website, with the current reading for Stanford here.

Power restored to Beckman Center

Regular power has been restored to the Beckman Center following Monday’s power outage and electrical fire.

Power restored to most buildings

Power has been restored to most buildings affected by the power outage reported earlier, except for the Beckman Center, where fire crews responded to an electrical fire believed to be associated with the outage.

The fire, in a basement room, was extinguished by the Palo Alto Fire Department. No injuries were reported; a small number of people evacuated the building. The cause of the fire and power outage has not been determined.

There is no estimated time for regular power to be restored to the Beckman Center. Updates will be posted to this page when available.

Power outage affects several campus buildings

A power outage that began late Monday morning is affecting several buildings on the main Stanford campus.

University teams have responded and are investigating the cause of the outage. There is currently no estimated time for power restoration.

Affected facilities include those listed below:

Graduate School of Business
Schwab Residential Center
Paul Allen Center
RAF2
Gates Computer Science
Beckman Center

Residents of the Schwab Residential Center who have questions or immediate needs should be in touch with the front desk. Updates will be available on this page.

Update from President Tessier-Lavigne on wildfires, air quality, power supply

Dear Stanford community,

As those of you here in the Bay Area are all too aware, wildfires, poor air quality, unpredictable weather and power grid challenges are continuing to affect our region. I am writing this weekend to share some brief updates on these issues with all of you.

First and most importantly, the thoughts of our Stanford community continue to be with everyone affected by the wildfires across California, including those in our community who have been evacuated from fire areas such as the CZU Lightning Complex in the Santa Cruz Mountains and the SCU Lightning Complex to the east and south.

Stanford is working to support our employees who have been affected by the fires, and we have reached out to more than 1,000 employees who are either in the affected areas or live nearby. If you need assistance, please be in touch: Contact your HR manager or supervisor and let them know what resources you may need. We are continuing to work on additional ways of extending support to those who have been displaced by these terrible fires. Additional information related to the fires is available on the Cardinal at Work website.

As a result of the fires, air quality in the area around Stanford has continued to fluctuate this weekend. Please continue to follow the guidance shared via AlertSU last week to protect your health when the local air quality deteriorates. This guidance is on emergency.stanford.edu, and details and training materials are available from Stanford Environmental Health & Safety at https://ehs.stanford.edu/topic/general-workplace-safety/protection-from-wildfire-smoke. Official air quality readings for the local area are available at airnow.gov.

The National Weather Service is warning of the potential for thunderstorms later today and Monday, with gusty winds and lightning that could spark new wildfires. A Red Flag Warning is in effect for the Bay Area. Given the effects of last week’s storm, we want to be prepared, including with respect to the potential for power outages.

As brief background, electricity is delivered to the main Stanford campus from PG&E through two major transmission lines. One of these lines runs through the Santa Cruz Mountains. PG&E has said that it currently does not expect to initiate Public Safety Power Shutoffs due to the incoming weather system, and we are not anticipating any power interruptions at Stanford. However, based on the unpredictability of the wildfire and weather situation, we want to share general precautionary information about the potential effects of power supply disruption.

If Stanford receives advance notice of a power disruption, we will notify you through the AlertSU system. But power supply also can be affected with little or no advance notice. Land, Buildings & Real Estate has posted on the web a document that summarizes its Electrical Curtailment Plan in the event of a power supply interruption. We especially encourage building managers and those responsible for sensitive laboratory research or equipment to review this information and take any precautions.

The document illustrates how a loss of power supply could produce effects on building cooling systems on the main campus equivalent to a Stage 3 or Stage 4 Chilled Water Curtailment, depending on the amount of advance notice we receive. Some campus facilities would retain power and cooling to support life safety and critical operations. The document also provides tips for preparing for such a scenario. In the event of an extended outage, Residential & Dining Enterprises also has contingency plans to continue providing meal service for students and to support students living in campus housing.

Again, we are hopeful that it will not be necessary to act on this information, but we provide it in case it is. We will continue to keep you informed of any developments as they arise.

I am grateful to the many people across our university who are working tirelessly to support our students, faculty, staff and postdocs through the multiple challenges of these days. Thank you for all you are doing for Stanford, and for the care and concern you are extending to one another.

Sincerely,

Marc Tessier-Lavigne

Wildfire smoke: Take precautions; Dish closed

Wildfire smoke continues to be present in the area around Stanford today. As posted by airnow.gov, the nearest official reporting station in Redwood City had an Air Quality Index reading of 164 this morning, which is in the lower end of the Unhealthy range.

We do not have a forecast for the coming days, though smoke is likely to persist in the area at variable rates. Numerous wildfires are currently burning in the Bay Area, the closest to Stanford being a series of fires in southern San Mateo County and northern Santa Cruz County collectively named the “CZU August Lightning Complex” fires.

We know the high heat, smoke and continuing effects of the pandemic together pose additional challenges for members of our community. We offer the following information:

HEALTH GUIDANCE: The airnow.gov website provides recommendations on steps you should take at different Air Quality Index readings. In the “Unhealthy” range, sensitive groups are advised to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion, and to consider moving activities indoors or rescheduling them. Everyone else is encouraged to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion and to take more breaks during outdoor activities.

STUDENTS ON CAMPUS: In general, please consider staying indoors to the greatest extent possible due to the heat and smoke. Drink plenty of water. Contact Vaden Health Services if you have a health condition that needs attention due to the heat and smoke.

EH&S INFORMATION: Tips and training related to wildfire smoke are available from Stanford Environmental Health & Safety at https://ehs.stanford.edu/topic/general-workplace-safety/protection-from-wildfire-smoke. Supervisors should consult this information to provide for the needs of employees during a wildfire smoke event.

DISH CLOSURE: Due to the poor air quality, the Dish Area is being closed until at least 3 p.m. today. Conditions will be reassessed at that time. Updates will be provided at dish.stanford.edu.

As always, it is recommended that those who may be particularly sensitive to smoke consult their medical provider if needed during a wildfire smoke event. Updates on any changes in the current smoke event will be provided on emergency.stanford.edu.

Update on power outage

Power has been restored to all buildings affected by the outage earlier this morning except for the Fairchild Science Building. The cause of the outage has been determined to be the failure of a transformer at Fairchild. That building will be without normal power at least through this evening as repairs are determined and implemented. Fairchild emergency generators will remain operating until normal power is restored.

Power outage affecting several campus buildings

A power outage is affecting several buildings on the west side of the main Stanford campus.

Affected buildings are listed below. University teams have responded and the cause of the outage is being investigated. Building occupants should plan for a disruption of at least 4 hours.

Some affected buildings have emergency backup power, but not all circuits within a building may have it, and there may be impacts to building cooling. No impacts are expected to campus IT services.

Affected buildings are:

Fairchild Science Building
Li Ka Shing Center for Learning and Knowledge
CCSR
Forsythe Hall
Ventura Hall
Cordura Hall
West Electronic Communication Hub
Nora Suppes Hall Annex
SRAF Comparative Medicine
Northwest Data Center
Central Process Steam Plant

Update on potential for rotating power outages

PG&E reported today (Monday, August 17) that rotating power outages are likely to occur in California this afternoon and evening due to continued hot weather. The Stanford community is encouraged to help conserve energy and to make any preparations needed in the event of a power outage.

Rotating outages can be ordered by the California Independent System Operator (California ISO) and implemented by utilities including PG&E based on the available power supply in the state. Due to extreme heat and high demand that may be greater than supply, California ISO may require PG&E to turn off power in rotating outages between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m. each day August 17-20.

Rotating outages typically last 1-2 hours. The customers specifically affected by an outage will not receive advance notice.

If a power outage affects one of Stanford’s campuses, the university’s ability to supply chilled water to cool campus buildings will cease. Loads not served by emergency power during the event, such as research activities, will be impacted.

Please take any necessary precautions to prepare for a possible power and chilled water outage, protect critical equipment, and take steps to conserve energy to help reduce the load on the state’s power grid.

Announcement from PG&E: https://www.pgecurrents.com/2020/08/17/rotating-power-outages-likely-to-occur-monday-afternoon-and-evening/

Information and energy conservation tips from PG&E: https://www.pge.com/en_US/residential/outages/planning-and-preparedness/safety-and-preparedness/keep-power-on.page

Ongoing updates from PG&E: https://twitter.com/PGE4Me

Update on air quality from wildfire smoke

Air quality in the area around Stanford campuses is predicted to worsen throughout the morning as the winds turn and potentially bring smoke from the fires that continue to burn in Northern California. The problem is expected to be relatively short lived, with improvement in the afternoon, but we continue to monitor the situation as conditions remain volatile.

The best advice when smoke becomes present is to stay indoors as much as possible. Avoiding exposure to smoky air is the best step one can take. Staying hydrated and keeping windows closed also help.

While there is no general recommendation to wear masks, we understand that some people may feel more comfortable having an N95 mask available due to the conditions this week. It is important to note that masks have limitations and must be fitted properly to be effective.

Stanford employees who work outdoors can be in touch with their supervisors to obtain an N95 mask. Departments have supplies available.

In addition, the university is making N95 masks available to students, faculty and staff who wish to have one. Masks are available at the following locations during regular business hours:

• Vaden Health Center, 866 Campus Drive
• Environmental Health & Safety, 484 Oak Road
• Department of Public Safety, 711 Serra Street
• Stanford Redwood City: Desk Ambassadors in Cardinal Hall, University Hall, Discovery Hall and Academy Hall
• SLAC: Occupational Health Center, Building 28, Room 11

You may go to any of these locations for an N95 mask and instructions for use.

We will continue to monitor the situation for any potential impacts on campus operations, and we will communicate any impacts to the university community as soon as possible. Information will be shared here and via the AlertSU system.

Monday update on wildfire smoke

Stanford health and safety officials are continuing to monitor the air quality situation due to smoke from the wildfires in Northern California.

Air quality in the immediate local area improved this morning. However, the impacts of smoke in the Bay Area have been highly localized and changeable. Rather than blanketing the entire region, the smoke so far has tended to be distributed by wind channels in very local patterns.

Currently, forecasts suggest the winds may turn once again later today and potentially direct smoke to our area in the afternoon and evening. Because fires are continuing to burn, we will continue to see the possibility of wildfire smoke in our area for several days.

The best advice when smoke becomes present is to stay indoors. Avoiding exposure to smoky air is the best step one can take. Staying hydrated and keeping windows closed also help.

While there is no general recommendation to wear masks, we understand that some people may feel more comfortable having an N95 mask available due to the conditions this week. It is important to note that masks have limitations and must be fitted properly to be effective.

Stanford employees who work outdoors can be in touch with their supervisors to obtain an N95 mask. Departments have supplies available.

In addition, the university is making N95 masks available to students, faculty and staff who wish to have one. Masks will be available at the following locations during regular business hours, beginning today:

• Vaden Health Center, 866 Campus Drive
• Environmental Health & Safety, 484 Oak Road
• Department of Public Safety, 711 Serra Street
• Stanford Redwood City: Desk Ambassadors in Cardinal Hall, University Hall, Discovery Hall and Academy Hall
• SLAC: Occupational Health Center, Building 28, Room 11

You may go to any of these locations for an N95 mask and instructions for use.

We will continue to monitor the situation for any potential impacts on campus operations, and we will communicate any impacts to the university community as soon as possible. Information will be shared via the AlertSU system and on this page.

If local air quality worsens again, students on the main Stanford campus may want to find a study space with filtered air. Here are Residential & Dining Enterprises (R&DE) facilities that have filtered air:

• Arrillaga Family Dining Commons
• Graduate Community Center
• Munger Graduate Residence: Jacobson-Sorensen Hall main lobby
• Crothers Hall: Taper Center
• Crothers Hall: Crothers Memorial Meeting Room 101
• Escondido Village, Kennedy Commons: Great Room
• Breer Library Meeting Room
• Florence Moore Hall: SLE lounge and classroom (open to residents only)
• Most computer clusters within student residences (open to residents only)

Update on PG&E power shutoffs: In addition to the many people displaced by the recent wildfires, we know that many people have been coping with power outages due to the PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoffs. PG&E has said that additional shutoffs are possible tomorrow (Tuesday, Oct. 29). Stanford’s campuses are NOT in the area expected to be affected, but please consult PG&E’s website to determine if your home may be affected. A map is available here and an address look-up here.

Sunday evening wildfire smoke update

Air quality in the area around the main Stanford campus has worsened over the last few hours as a result of the wildfires burning in Northern California.

The best advice for this evening is to stay indoors, with windows closed, and minimize exposure to the smoky air. Drink plenty of water to help minimize potential irritation from the smoke. If you will be traveling by car, use air-recirculation mode.

For students looking for an air-conditioned space on campus this evening, these are among the options available:

• Tresidder Union (open hours extended to midnight tonight)
• Arrillaga Family Dining Commons
• Graduate Community Center, Havana Room
• Munger Graduate Residence, lobby area of Jacobson-Sorensen Hall

Wind and weather conditions are changeable, and the university will be monitoring the situation. Additional information will be available Monday if the current conditions persist or worsen. Ongoing information about wildfire smoke is available here and here on the Environmental Health & Safety website.

In addition to the many people displaced by the wildfires this weekend, we know that many people are coping with power outages due to the PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoffs. Stanford will be open and operating on Monday, but if you are an employee affected by a power outage, please take the steps necessary for your personal safety, and be in touch with your manager to discuss any alternate work arrangements that may be needed.

Update on power and wildfire smoke

Stanford is continuing to monitor two issues in the Bay Area – ongoing PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoffs and the spread of smoke from a wildfire in the North Bay. While there is no emergency at Stanford at this time, we want to keep members of the university community updated on our monitoring and preparations should the situation change.

Any emergency updates will be provided to the university community via the AlertSU system and posted on this page.

PG&E power: PG&E has indicated that it may initiate another Public Safety Power Shutoff sometime this weekend due to the arrival of strong winds in the region. At this time, Stanford’s campuses are NOT included in the areas identified by PG&E as being potentially subject to a power shutoff. PG&E’s map is available here, and a specific address look-up is available here.

Many nearby areas could be affected by a shutoff, however. If you live in one of these areas, please take the necessary preparatory actions. Employees who believe their home or children’s school could be affected by a power shutoff are encouraged to consult with their manager about any alternate work arrangements that may be needed.

Wildfire smoke: Stanford also is monitoring the potential for poor air quality due to the wildfire in Sonoma County. We are monitoring the Air Quality Index (AQI) at the nearest official reporting station, in Redwood City, through the AirNow website. This morning the AQI at that location has been in the “Moderate” range, though it is forecast to reach the lower end of the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” range later today.

Environmental Health & Safety has posted additional information about its monitoring of the situation, along with guidance for protection from wildfire smoke, here and here.

In general, when wildfire smoke affects local air quality, the following steps are encouraged:

• Limit strenuous outdoor activity where possible.
• For more susceptible populations, including older adults, children and those with pulmomary/respiratory conditions, minimize time spent outdoors.
• When indoors, keep windows and doors closed.
• In vehicles, use air-recirculation mode.
• Drink plenty of water to help minimize potential irritation.

If the situation changes: If air quality begins reaching unhealthy levels, limiting exposure is still the best step to take. However, in the event of unhealthy outdoor air conditions, N95 respirator masks will be available for members of the university community who feel they need one. To be effective, a mask needs to be fitted properly with a seal. The EH&S website has additional information about the proper use of N95 masks.

If the air quality situation deteriorates significantly this weekend, the university will provide additional information about the availability of N95 masks, suggested facilities for those seeking clean indoor air, curtailment of any university operations, and other questions. Information will be provided through the AlertSU system and posted on this website. Those attending Reunion Homecoming activities this weekend will be informed via the Reunion Homecoming app and website.

It is always recommended that those who may be particularly sensitive to smoke consult their medical provider in preparation for any wildfire smoke event. As with the power situation, we encourage managers to consider the needs of employees and have proactive discussions with employees about any alternative work arrangements needed due to health concerns.

Power restored to all affected buildings

Power has been restored to the Bookstore and Barnum Center.

Power restored to most affected buildings

Power has been restored to almost all buildings that were affected by the overnight outage and the brief additional planned outage at 3:30 p.m. today. We expect power to be restored to the Bookstore and the Barnum Center early this evening.

Initial assessment indicates that a failed power cable, located between Stern Hall and the Bookstore, led to the initial outage Tuesday night that affected certain buildings on the central and east side of the main Stanford campus. LBRE will be conducting further assessment work. We appreciate the university community’s patience and understanding during this event.

Several buildings to lose power for 30 minutes at 3:30 p.m.

In order to restore power to a number of buildings affected by the overnight power outage, several additional buildings on the main Stanford campus will need to lose power for 30 minutes at 3:30 p.m. today. An adjacent line serving these buildings needs to be powered down in order to power up a line originally affected by the outage.

The following buildings will lose power for approximately 30 minutes at 3:30 p.m. today:

• Branner Hall
• Encina Hall and Commons
• Terman Engineering (parts of Building 02-500)
• The Nitery
• Toyon Hall
• Wilbur Hall
• Several construction trailers

Please note that some of these buildings may have emergency backup power during this period.

For other buildings affected by the original overnight outage, the restoration of power, originally scheduled to begin after 12 noon today, will need to wait for this additional step to occur. We hope to see power restoration beginning in the 4:00 hour.

The Bookstore and Barnum Center are still expected to see power restoration later in the day.

We apologize for this inconvenience and appreciate the community’s patience. Updates will continue to be available on this page.

9:45 a.m. update on power

Technicians are working to restore power to affected buildings on the main Stanford campus.

The affected student residences, along with most of the other buildings affected by the power outage, should see power begin to be restored after 12 noon today. Power will come back online in stages.

LBRE reports that power to the Bookstore and the Barnum Center is not estimated to be restored until the end of the business day, due to the location of the fault. The Bookstore is closed during the power outage.

The campus as a whole is open and operating. Vaden Health Center continues to be operating today. Updates will continue to be provided on this page.

8 a.m. update on power

Technicians have identified a fault believed to be the cause of the power outage affecting some buildings on the east side of the main Stanford campus. Electricians will be working to isolate it and then begin the process of re-energizing the line. It is estimated that fully restoring power in the area could take up to 8 hours.

Some buildings in the affected area, including Stern Hall and Vaden Health Center, are operating on backup generator power. Vaden plans to be operating as usual today.

Student residences without power are Crothers and some houses in the Cowell Cluster. Students in these residences are welcome to dine at the Arrillaga Family Dining Commons, which is open and operating.

No classes are believed to be affected by the outage. Some scheduled events may be moved out of the Barnum Center today due to the outage.

Thank you to those affected for your patience with the situation. Additional updates will be posted, when available, on this page.

Update: Power outage on eastern side of main campus

Technicians continue to investigate a power outage that has affected some student residences and other buildings on the eastern side of the main Stanford campus.

There is no estimated time of restoration.

Some buildings in the affected area continue to operate on generator power.

To those affected, thank you for your continued patience. Updates will be provided on this website when available.