A major power outage swept across parts of California on Monday as a dangerous heat wave pushed the state’s electric grid to its limits, leaving tens of thousands of homes and businesses without electricity.
Utilities reported over 45,000 customers without power in Southern California alone, with additional outages in the Bay Area and Central Valley. Temperatures in Los Angeles reached 98°F (37°C), while parts of the Inland Empire hit 105°F (41°C).
Why It’s Happening
Record-high electricity demand for air conditioning combined with planned maintenance and limited renewable output caused the strain. California ISO (the grid operator) declared a Stage 2 Emergency, urging residents to conserve power between 4 PM and 9 PM.
Impact on Residents
Many families are struggling with the heat, especially elderly residents and those with medical conditions. Local cooling centers have been opened, and officials are warning people not to use generators indoors due to carbon monoxide risk.
“This is becoming too common every summer,” said one resident in San Bernardino. “We pay some of the highest electricity rates in the country and still lose power when it gets hot.”
Governor’s Response
Governor Gavin Newsom activated the state’s emergency operations center and asked residents to reduce usage. He also criticized previous energy policies, saying more reliable power sources are needed.
This is the third major heat-related outage event in California this year, highlighting ongoing concerns about the state’s aging infrastructure and growing reliance on intermittent renewable energy.
Edge World News will continue to monitor the situation and provide live updates as utilities work to restore power.