Power lines stretch across the desert in Imperial Valley. Photo by Chris Stone
With above-normal temperatures expected in the San Diego area and many parts of the state, a statewide Flex Alert will be in effect from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, urging residents to voluntarily cut back on power use to avoid strain on California’s electrical grid.
The Flex Alert was issued by the California Independent System Operator, which manages the state’s power grid.
pic.twitter.com/YKsDkQfq37
— California ISO (@California_ISO) June 17, 2021
During the Flex Alert, consumers are asked to set their thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, if health permits, and take other voluntary measures, including avoiding the use of major appliances and unnecessary lights. Cal-ISO recommended that residents take steps before the Flex Alert takes effect, such as pre-cooling homes to 72 degrees and closing blinds and drapes.
“With above-normal temperatures in the forecast across much of the state (Wednesday), the power grid operator is expecting an increase in electricity demand, primarily from air conditioning use, and is calling for voluntary conservation steps to help balance supply and demand,” according to a statement from Cal-ISO.
Today and Wednesday will typically hot August summer days with thunderstorms over the mountains and deserts each afternoon. #cawx pic.twitter.com/TBv9nT81Qd
— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) August 16, 2022
According to the National Weather Service, above-normal temperatures are anticipated across the Southland through Wednesday, with a slow cooling trend setting in later in the week.
City News Service contributed to this article.