FRESNO (AP) — With temperatures forecast to push 112 degrees through the weekend, the National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat watch for the San Joaquin Valley.
The heat watch is in effect from this afternoon through Sunday evening for Mariposa, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare and Kern counties.
People are being urged to drink plenty of water, check on elderly family members, stay indoors and minimize physical activity.
The watch affects the valley and foothills. The weather service says warmer temperatures in metropolitan areas will create even more dangerous conditions.
Power conservation call in state
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Managers of California’s electrical grid have issued a statewide call for power conservation due to an intensifying heat wave.
The California Independent System Operator says a so-called “Flex Alert” is being declared today through Sunday, but conservation was also urged during Thursday afternoon’s peak hours when air conditioners drive energy consumption.
Valleys and inland areas have been sweltering in triple-digit highs all week under the influence of strong high pressure over the southwestern U.S. Forecasters say the heat combined with rising humidity will continue through the weekend.
The heat is on as the San Onofre nuclear plant remains offline due to problems with its steam generators.
The “Flex Alert” is intended to prevent operating reserves from falling to the point that a Stage 1 Emergency occurs.