SoCal Edison Warns of Possible Power Outages

Officials with Southern California Edison Wednesday warned consumers of possible power outages because of heat-prompted high energy usage.

The wide-spread and continued use of air conditioning is already placing a strain on the power grid, officials said.

Many customers have been using their air conditioners into the night, as temperatures in Southwest Riverside County soar, the desert and the mountains soar, officials said.

Temperatures in Lake Elsinore and Wildomar are expected to go into the triple digits.

Lake Elsinore on Wednesday was expected to break its previous high heat record of 110 degrees.

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Temperatures in the Inland Empire Thursday could go as high as 111 and are expected to remain in the triple digits through the weekend and into next week, according to forecasters.

SoCal Edison officials advised customers to conserve power during the day and especially at night -- specifically by setting thermostats no lower than 78.

Officials also advised their customers to use more electric fans, limit the use of dishwashers and washing machines to early morning and evening hours and shut off lights when leaving a room.

Residents should also try to keep refrigerator doors closed as much as possible, since they are major energy users, officials said.

Swimming pool equipment should also not be operated during the hottest part of the day, officials said, and employers are asked to schedule their most energy intensive tasks for evening or early morning hours.