Politics & Government

Update: Heat Wave Sparks Statewide Flex Alert

The conservation measure comes on the heels of sizzling temperatures and skyrocketing electrical demands across the Southland. It is aimed at helping residents conserve energy and avoid power outages.

With temperatures continuing to climb, the California Independent System Operator has issued a Flex Alert effective 9 a.m. today, that will continue through 6 p.m. this evening.

The California Independent System Operator issued the Flex Alert on Thursday and originally wanted it to remain in effect through Sunday. Erin Johnson of ISO told Patch Friday afternoon that as a result of people effectively conserving energy, the alert for Saturday and Sunday had been cancelled.

The alert is the first step in reducing the demands on the electricity system to avoid the potential for rotating outages. Officials say the alert was sparked by the heat wave smothering Southern California and in part to with the .

Find out what's happening in Newport Beach-Corona Del Marwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for several cities around Los Angeles County, and Orange County continues to heat up too with highs in the mid to upper 90s expected to continue inland through Sunday.

Temperatures reached the upper 80s on Thursday in Newport Beach, and the forecast calls for more hot weather on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Find out what's happening in Newport Beach-Corona Del Marwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Here's how you can help conserve some energy:

  • Set your thermostat to 78 or higher, and turn it off when you are not home
  • Turn off unnecessary lights and appliances
  • Use major appliances after 6 p.m.
  • Cool with fans and close the curtains to help keep the heat out
  • Turn off the computer monitor when you're away from your desk
  • Turn off lights when you leave the room
  • Switch off half the overhead lights


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