High Risk ⚡ Power Plant / Substation  ·  California

Pacific DC Intertie Northern California

CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE RISK PROFILE  ·  CALIFORNIA

8 / 10
Risk Score
Facility Type
⚡ Power Plant / Substation
Primary Risk Radius
10
mile zone
Secondary Risk Radius
30
mile zone

// Risk Intelligence

Risk Score8 / 10   High
Facility Type⚡ Power Plant / Substation
Operator / BranchBPA Bonneville Power Administration
Host CountyTrinity County CA
Nearest CityWashington DC
Primary Risk Radius10 miles
Secondary Risk Radius30 miles

// Strategic Significance

The Pacific DC Intertie also known as the Pacific High Voltage Direct Current line is a 846-mile high voltage direct current transmission line carrying up to 3,100 megawatts of Pacific Northwest hydroelectric power from Oregon to Southern California. It is one of the longest transmission lines in the US and a critical link connecting Pacific Northwest power surplus to California demand. Wildfire along the transmission corridor in Northern California and Cascadia earthquake risk create serious vulnerability. The line crosses some of the most remote and wildfire-prone terrain in the US.

// Civilian Impact Assessment

The Pacific DC Intertie serves millions of California residents with Pacific Northwest hydroelectric power. A major wildfire severing the line would reduce California power imports by 3,100 MW potentially causing rolling blackouts during peak demand. Cascadia earthquake could damage the Oregon terminus.

// Evacuation & Shelter Guidance

CA Route 299, Trinity County. Trinity County Emergency Management coordinates wildfire and transmission line emergency protocols.

// Counties Within Risk Zone