PG&E uses artificial intelligence to weigh elevated fire risk

Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) is using artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the accuracy of its weather models for predicting wildfire risks.
PG&E has introduced Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) since 2018 to mitigate wildfire risk by cutting power in areas prone to severe wind conditions.
An AI prediction model leverages historical data and machine learning to improve weather forecast precision, according to PG&E Chief Meteorologist Scott Strenfel.
The National Interagency Fire Center predicts “above normal” fire potential extending into September, due to factors like abundant vegetation and dry conditions.
Although the number of wildfires is lower compared to the same period last year, they have burned around 20,000 acres more than the five-year average, highlighting an already above-average fire season in California.