While summer is still months away, incoming temperatures tell a different story.
The National Weather Service has issued advisories for much of Southern California Edison’s service area, warning there is a significant risk of heat illness.
Highs will run 20 to 35 degrees above normal throughout the week, with the hottest stretch arriving Tuesday through Friday. Temperatures will sit in the mid to upper 90’s with some areas breaking triple digits.
During periods of extended heat, electricity demand rises from increased air conditioner use. When that is combined with high overnight temperatures, electrical equipment does not get a chance to cool down, which may lead to outages.
“We are closely monitoring the heat conditions expected across our service area,” said Rahim Nathoo, SCE senior manager of Business Resiliency. “Crews are prepared to quickly respond and restore power if heat-related outages occur. We also have an Incident Management Team ready to help respond to the heat event should conditions warrant.”
Customers can check the latest outage information at sce.com/outages.
SoCal residents battling the heat can dial 211 or go to SCE's extreme heat resources page to find cooling center locations by county.
Tips to stay cool and save on electricity:
· Set your thermostat to 78 degrees when you are home and to 85 degrees or “off” when you are away.
· Give your air conditioner a rest when you can and cool your home with open windows and fans.
· Turn off the lights when leaving a room.
· Close your blinds to keep the afternoon heat out.
· Limit the opening and reopening of refrigerators.
· Plug home electronics into power strips and turn off power strips when equipment is not in use.
· Unplug electronic devices and chargers when they are not in use.
· Give your dryer a break and hang-dry your clothes.
· Cook with a grill outside or microwave to keep your home cooler.
For more information on ways to save, visit sce.com/billsavings.
