High Heat Energy Conservation
From the National Weather Service, a Heat Advisory is in effect from noon Tuesday to 8 PM EDT Wednesday, with heat index values expected to reach up to 108 degrees across the Piedmont and foothills of northeast Georgia, western North Carolina, and Upstate South Carolina. These conditions may cause heat illnesses.
As this dangerous heat wave grips the area, Duke Energy is urging customers in the Carolinas to conserve energy from 3-8 p.m. to ease strain on the power grid and prevent outages.
To help, residents should:
- set thermostats to the highest comfortable temperature
- postpone laundry and dishwashing
- avoid prolonged use of electric ovens and consider outdoor grilling
- turn off unnecessary appliances and lights.
Additionally, during this extreme heat, prioritize safety by staying hydrated, staying in air-conditioned rooms, staying out of the sun, checking on vulnerable individuals, and providing pets with ample water and shade.
Crucially, never leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles, as car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in minutes. Keep homes cool by closing doors, using fans, ensuring clean AC filters, closing blinds, and setting AC to an efficient temperature.