It’s officially summer now and it’s suddenly very, very hot and humid in Greensboro and Guilford County.  As the area bakes under a punishing stretch of extreme heat this week, Duke Energy is asking everyone to help reduce stress on the electric grid to avoid potential power outages.

As of Monday, June 23, a Heat Advisory is in effect through Tuesday, with the National Weather Service forecasting heat index values around 105 degrees. An Excessive Heat Watch is expected to follow – lasting into Wednesday evening – since heat indices could climb as high as 110 degrees.

Daytime temperatures across the area are expected to remain in the mid to upper 90s through the weekend as well, with overnight lows not offering a great deal of relief – temperatures then will be hovering in the mid-70s. Tuesday’s forecast high is 98 degrees, and, in addition to the oppressive heat, on Wednesday there’s a risk of severe afternoon thunderstorms.

Duke Energy, which supplies electricity to much of the Triad, issued a public request for energy conservation Monday, warning that “Successive days of extreme temperatures are driving unusually high energy demand in our area, and reserve power supplies are currently very limited.”

The utility said energy conservation could play a key role in protecting the stability of the electric grid and in reducing the risk of temporary outages.

Residents are being urged to take the following steps:

  • Set thermostats to the highest comfortable setting, especially between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m.
  • Avoid using washers, dryers and dishwashers until after 8 p.m.
  • Cook with a microwave, cooktop or outdoor grill rather than an electric oven.
  • Turn off all nonessential appliances and electronics including lights, gaming devices, computers and chargers.
  • Charge electric vehicles and other battery-powered equipment overnight or in the morning hours.

“We understand that reducing your energy use can be challenging, especially indoor cooling during an unusually warm day,” Duke Energy stated Monday. “We greatly appreciate your assistance – your actions make a difference.”

Local officials are also reminding county residents to take precautions against heat-related illness.

 Emergency management officials recommend staying indoors during peak heat, drinking lots of water, avoiding strenuous outdoor activity and checking on elderly neighbors and those without air conditioning.

The National Weather Service warns that extended exposure to high heat can quickly lead to dehydration or heatstroke – especially for young children, older adults, outdoor workers and anyone with chronic health conditions.

The heat wave is expected to linger through at least Saturday, with a slight drop in temperatures possible by Sunday.

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