With a significant heat wave bearing down on California and the West this week and wild fires posing potential threats to the California power grid, the California Independent System Operator Corp. (California ISO) is declaring a Flex Alert for Tuesday, July 8, through Thursday, July 10. Consumers are urged to reduce their energy use during the late afternoon when air conditioners drive consumption to the highest point of the day.

Peak demand this week could approach the record peak demand of 50,270 MW, which was set on July 24, 2006.

24-Hour Ahead Outlook for Tuesday, July 8 Flex Alert Day

High temperatures are forecast throughout the state and region. The California ISO is not anticipating any shortages, but energy demand is expected to be high and Californians are urged to reduce energy usage between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m.

-- Stage 1: possible Stage 2: unlikely Stage 3: unlikely

-- Forecast peak demand: 48,810 MW around 4:00 p.m.

48-Hour Ahead Outlook for Wednesday, July 9 Flex Alert Day

The hot weather is forecast to intensify and peak energy demand will continue to climb as well. The California ISO is urging reduced energy usage between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m.

-- Stage 1: possible Stage 2: possible Stage 3: unlikely

72-Hour Ahead Outlook for Thursday, July 10 Flex Alert Day

Thursday is forecast to be the hottest day of the week and energy demand could be near record setting levels. Conservation will be very important.

-- Stage 1: possible Stage 2: possible Stage 3: unlikely

Stage 1 Emergency

Consumers are urged to reduce their use of electricity voluntarily to avoid severe conditions.

Stage 2 Emergency

Voluntary interruption of service to select customers is possible to avoid more severe conditions.

Stage 3 Emergency

Consumers are advised that involuntary interruptions of service have begun and will continue until the emergency has passed.