Around 20 million Americans across 17 states are living with the threat of a potential blackout as extreme heat warnings push the power grid to its limits. The US Department of Energy (DOE) has authorized the operator serving parts of 17 states to activate idle power sources to prevent outages.
States at risk and DOE action
The affected states include Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming. The DOE's decision allows normally switched-off backup plants to generate extra electricity if the main grid becomes overwhelmed. The Southwest Power Pool (SPP), which oversees the central US grid, can launch these backup generators if supplies become strained. The department also noted that more than 35 gigawatts of unused backup generation remain available nationwide.
Extreme heat driving demand
Rising temperatures and humidity have caused air conditioning demand to surge. The move is a step before a Level 3 Energy Emergency Alert, which could trigger rolling blackouts to prevent a wider collapse. Former DOE official Kerry Duggan commented: '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.'
Record temperatures expected
National Weather Service alerts on Monday reported temperatures across the 17 states will exceed 100°F (around 37°C). In parts of Louisiana, temperatures could reach 115°F (around 45°C). Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, and Nebraska may see highs of 110°F.
Recent storms add to challenges
Last week, millions faced life-threatening conditions from Tropical Storm Bertha near the US Gulf Coast. The storm brought up to eight inches of heavy rainfall, high winds, and flooding to the southeast. The National Hurricane Center warned of a 'life-threatening storm surge,' with Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama expected to be worst hit. Bertha, the second tropical storm this season after Arthur in June, carried wind speeds of 40 mph and was located 105 miles south of Panama City, Florida.
