Around 20 million Americans across 17 states are facing the threat of potential blackouts as extreme heat waves push the power grid to its limits. The US Department of Energy (DOE) has authorized the operator serving parts of these states to activate idle power sources to generate extra electricity if the main grid becomes overwhelmed.
States affected and DOE action
The states at risk include Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming. The decision allows the Southwest Power Pool (SPP), which oversees the central US grid, to launch backup generators if electricity supplies become strained. The DOE also stated that more than 35 gigawatts of unused backup generation remain available nationwide.
This measure is the step before a Level 3 Energy Emergency Alert, which could trigger rolling blackouts to prevent a broader collapse. Former DOE official Kerry Duggan commented on the situation, saying: "As we experience more frequent and longer-lasting heat waves, our ability to keep homes, businesses and critical facilities cool depends on having a reliable and resilient electric grid."
Extreme temperatures and demand surge
The combination of rising temperatures and humidity has caused air conditioning demand to surge. National Weather Service alerts on Monday reported temperatures across the 17 states reaching above 100°F (around 37°C). In parts of Louisiana, the mercury could hit 115°F (around 45°C), while Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, and Nebraska may see highs of 110°F.
Recent storm adds to challenges
In addition to the heat, millions were warned last week about life-threatening conditions from Tropical Storm Bertha near the US Gulf Coast. The storm was expected to bring up to eight inches of heavy rainfall, high winds, and flooding to the southeastern states. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) alerted to a "life-threatening storm surge," with Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama predicted to be the worst hit.
The NHC said: "A Storm Surge Watch means there is a possibility of life-threatening inundation, from rising water moving inland from the coastline, in the indicated locations during the next 48 hours." Tropical Storm Bertha was first located about 105 miles south of Panama City, Florida, with wind speeds of 40mph. It marked the second tropical storm this season, following Tropical Storm Arthur in June, which caused flash flooding and tornadoes in parts of the South.
The extreme weather is attributed to an incredibly hot summer in the southern region.
