CA Could Ask Residents To Conserve Power Amid Statewide Swelter

CALIFORNIA — Another scorching heat wave bearing down on the Golden State Sunday prompted California's power grid operator to urge residents to conserve power on Sunday, as temperatures were expected to remain elevated.

As residents across the state crank up air conditioners and fans to beat the heat this week, the increased demand in electricity could strain the state's power grid and cause outages Monday, officials said.

If weather conditions intensify, officials from the California Independent System Operator warned that it could issue a Flex Alert Monday, a voluntary call for consumers to reduce electricity use during critical times of stress on the grid.

Temperatures in California were forecast to soar to the mid-90s to mid-100s, about 4 to 8 degrees above normal for Northern California and 6 to 15 degrees above average in the Southland. Coastal areas were expected to heat up as well, but a light onshore flow will keep temperatures in the 70s and 80s.

"Potential for resource shortfalls are projected for Monday, but could be made up in the day-ahead market running today for tomorrow, and through voluntary consumer conservation," officials wrote in a statement.

CAISO has said that the state is more prepared this year to avoid last summer's rotating blackouts.

Last year, amid a disastrous fire season and record-breaking swelter up and down the state, CAISO pleaded with residents to conserve energy amid a series of rolling blackouts. Officials declared a stage 2 emergency in August of last year after the grid, operating on low reserves, started to falter as residents upped their power usage.

"California's record-breaking persistent heat wave has put extraordinary strain on the ISO electric system, as air conditioners are working harder and longer to keep spaces cool during the high temperatures," CAISO said in August of last year.

The National Weather Service issued several excessive heat warnings across the Golden State this week, with many ending Monday. The heat was forecast to be more prominent in the state's valleys and deserts.

"Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors," NWS forecasters advised. "Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances."

The onslaught of warm weather was triggered by the monsoonal high-pressure system that was baking the Pacific Northwest last week. The swelter was forecast to peak Sunday and Monday.

"High pressure will bring another heatwave, with daytime temperatures well above normal on Sunday and Monday in the deserts and portions of the mountains and inland valleys," National Weather Service officials said.

For the early and middle part of next week, monsoonal moisture could bring thunderstorms, mainly in the mountains and deserts and mostly during the afternoon and early evening hours, according to the weather service.

The potential for dry lightning strikes could also arise this week, elevating fire danger. Some areas could also see rainfall later in the week, meteorologists said.

Public health officials in Los Angeles were reminding Southland residents to hydrate and stay cool this weekend to avoid heat-related illness, especially for elderly people, young children, those who work outdoors, athletes and people with certain health conditions.

"While it is very important that everyone take special care of themselves, it is equally important that we reach out and check on others, in particular those who are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of high temperatures, including children, the elderly, and their pets," said Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County's health officer. "High temperatures are not just an inconvenience, they can be dangerous and even deadly.

Here are some tips to stay safe during a heatwave, according to public health officials in Los Angeles County:

• Drink plenty of water and keep hydrated throughout the day.
• If you must go out, plan your day to avoid going out during the hottest hours, and wear sunscreen. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothes, and wear a hat or use an umbrella.
• Cars get very hot. Never leave children or pets in cars and call 911 if you see a child or pet in a car alone.
• Beware of heat-related illness, like heat stroke and call 911 if you see these symptoms: high body temperature, vomiting, and pale and clammy skin.
• Check on those at risk, like those who are sick, older adults, pregnant women, and children, and those who live alone.
• If you are wearing a mask, avoid strenuous workouts wearing face coverings or masks not intended for athletic purposes..
• Visit your power company's website or contact them by phone to determine if you are scheduled for a rolling power outage.

The City News Service contributed to this report.