Frozen Waymos backed up San Francisco traffic during a widespread power outage

Widespread Power Outage in San Francisco Causes Traffic Chaos

A massive power outage struck San Francisco on Saturday, affecting approximately 130,000 customers at its peak, according to Pacific Gas and Electric Company. However, the blackout also had an unexpected consequence: stranded Waymo vehicles.

Posts on social media showed the company's autonomous SUVs sitting still in the streets, causing traffic jams. Some individuals even shared videos of the stuck vehicles.

Waymo's Response

In response to the situation, Waymo suspended its SF robotaxi service on Saturday evening. The company's decision was likely made to prevent further disruptions and ensure public safety.

Impact on Residents

The power outage and subsequent traffic congestion caused significant inconvenience for San Francisco residents. The city's residents were left stranded, with many taking to social media to express their frustration.

Conclusion

The widespread power outage in San Francisco highlights the importance of infrastructure resilience in the face of unexpected events. As cities continue to integrate autonomous vehicles into their transportation systems, it is essential to consider the potential consequences of such events.

Sources

[5] Frozen Waymos backed up San Francisco traffic during a widespread power outage