Thousands across California had their power shut off Friday due to a heightened wildfire risk, with widespread high wind warnings in effect through the weekend from Santa Barbara County through Tehama County.

California utilities have shut off the power supply to thousands of customers statewide to prevent the ignition of wildfires amid powerful dry winds. According to an update by PG&E Corp, 7,000 customers were without power Thursday evening after the company initiated a preemptive shutdown due to severe weather and wildfire risk.

More than a dozen California communities could have their power cut off as part of a wildfire prevention measure as powerful winds are set to hit