Electric Grid Strains While 150 Million Endure High Heat Ahead of July Fourth
Millions face temperatures above 100 degrees as utilities, transit agencies and event organizers brace for higher demand and possible delays.
- On Friday, more than 185 million Americans face heat alerts as an intense heat dome settles over the central and eastern United States, threatening Fourth of July celebrations and travel.
- Sweltering temperatures are overwhelming the PJM electric grid, which serves 67 million people across 13 states, driving wholesale electricity prices up more than 243% in New England and 101% in New York City on Thursday.
- New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents on Thursday to "alleviate the strain on our energy grid" by setting air conditioning to 78 degrees, while Chicago's ComEd sent alerts to nearly 80,000 customers calling for "immediate energy reduction."
- Energy economist Mark Wolfe of the National Energy Assistance Directors Association warned that summertime electricity costs are projected to rise 10.5% this year, noting that raising thermostats by one degree allows households to save 3% on electric bills.
- Although heat alerts will cover 159 million people on Friday, relief is expected over the weekend as scientists warn that burning fossil fuels is the chief driver of the climate crisis increasing the frequency of extreme weather events.
19 Articles
19 Articles
Times of India
The Economic TimesHeat wave disrupts Fourth of July events in Washington, strains power grids across US
A severe heatwave has disrupted Fourth of July celebrations across the central and eastern United States, forcing cancellations of parades, concerts, and fireworks. Record-breaking temperatures, fueled by a "heat dome," have strained power grids and led to widespread heat alerts affecting over 185 million people. Officials are urging caution due to the dangerous conditions, with several cities experiencing extreme heat and power outages.
An extreme heat wave continues to hit the center and east of the United States and will continue throughout the weekend of July 4, one of the most crowded travel periods of the year. Authorities warn that high temperatures put pressure on electricity networks and can cause significant delays in rail, air and road transport.
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