Power Outages

Be prepared for power outages - and remember flashlights are safer than candles!

Report an outage:

  • Phone: Call 503-464-7777 (or 800-544-1795) to report a power outage or downed line through our automated system. You can also request a call back when power is restored. Please call only once to allow other callers to get through.
  • Online: Go to https://portlandgeneral.com/outages-safety to report a power outage or to get an update. You can also view a map and list of current outages by ZIP code.
  • App: You can also report an outage or find out information using PGE's Mobile App.

Let PGE know as soon as possible. If you speak with a customer service representative, it’s helpful if you can provide any of the following information:

  • Are your lights dim or out?
  • Did you check your fuse or breaker box for blown fuses or tripped circuits?
  • Are your neighbors’ lights out?
  • Is a power line down?
  • Did a tree limb fall on a power line?
  • Is there any damage to the utility pole?
  • Are the streetlights out?
  • Did you hear a noise?

Outage Map - shows outages in the PGE service area.

What additional steps should you take?

Here’s how you can prevent possible power-surge damage and avoid overloading the system when power is restored.

  • Turn on one outside and one inside light so you and PGE crews will know when service is restored.
  • Turn off major appliances at the breaker box and unplug other sensitive electrical equipment like TVs and computers.
  • If you have a backup generator and plan to use it, please review tips for using generators safely.
  • Call PGE if your neighbor’s power comes back on but yours does not.
  • Call PGE and turn off the breaker if your lights are very dim or very bright once your power is restored.

Food for thought

To keep food in your fridge and freezer cold, avoid opening doors as much as possible. Add bagged or block ice, or move your food to a cooler with ice. If it's below 40 degrees out, a cooler or box outside will also keep food cold. Just be sure to keep an eye out for rising temperatures. Check out other helpful info from FoodSafety.gov.

Important reminders

  • Carbon monoxide poisoning risks are real. Never use a charcoal grill or portable gas-powered generator inside your home, garage or carport.
  • Know how to operate the manual release lever on your automatic garage door..
  • Check on elderly or impaired neighbors, if possible, to see if they need help.

Warming shelter information

If extreme weather or cold means you need a place to get warm, find information by county at 211info.org

Downed power line

Call PGE immediately at  503-464-7777  in Portland, or  800-544-1795, to report any downed utility line. 

  • If you see a downed or sagging line, stay at least 50 feet away!
  • A downed line doesn’t have to spark to be dangerous.
  • Don’t touch anything near a downed power line.
  • If a person or animal is in contact with electricity, stay back.
  • If a line falls on your car, stay in your vehicle.

More safety tips

Visit PGE for addition safety tips, Including:

  • What to do if you see a downed power line
  • Find a dependable electrical contractor
  • Tips on food storage and cooking during an outage
  • Special instructions for life-support patients
  • Surge protection for your home electronics
  • Surge and power backup devices for business