Stage 1 Power Emergency Declared

Southland Expected To Reach Triple-Digit Temps Monday

 

POSTED: 6:05 am PDT July 26, 2004
UPDATED: 9:31 am PDT July 26, 2004

 

LOS ANGELES -- With both Southern and Northern California experiencing heat waves, the state's energy regulator declared Monday a "power watch day" in anticipation of record electricity consumption.

 

The California System Operator (Cal-ISO) declared the power watch day because less electricity will be available for import Monday from other states, which also are experiencing hot weather.

 

The toughest time will be from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., according to the agency.

 

The forecast peak demand is for 46,252 megawatts around 5 p.m., which would top the record 44,360 set July 21. Cal-ISO said a Stage 1 alert is possible today.

 

With a Stage 1 emergency, consumers are urged to reduce their use of electricity voluntarily to avoid severe conditions. A Stage 2 emergency results in voluntary interruption of service to select customers. Under a Stage 3 alert, consumers are advised that involuntary interruptions of service are in effect until the emergency passes.

 

The mercury is expected to top the century mark in a number of Southland communities Monday. The National Weather Service forecast highs of 105 in the Antelope Valley, 104 in the San Fernando Valley and about 95 in the San Gabriel Valley.

 

A cooling trend is expected starting Tuesday, gaining strength on Wednesday.

 

To reduce electricity consumption, Cal-ISO advises Californians to: