Heat Wave Triggers Flex Alert Tuesday

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — A statewide Flex Alert has been issued for Monday amidst a week-long heat wave that has struck California.

Cal ISO called for the Flex Alert Monday after a weekend of scorching temperatures throughout the Southland.

Consumers are encouraged to reduce their energy use, especially between the hours of 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., Cal ISO said.

The state agency forecasts peak demand to be a 47,489 megawatts Tuesday.

Tuesday's Flex Alert marks the second alert to be issued since Friday where nearly 1,000 megawatts in energy reduction helped maintain grid reliability.

"The level of conservation is equal to the output of two large power plants," officials said.

To conserve power, setting the thermostat at 78 or higher is recommended. Cal ISO also recommends keeping homes dark, drawing drapes and blinds and cooling down with fans; turning off unnecessary lights and appliances and using major appliances in the morning or late evening.

No Flex Alert has been issued for Wednesday.