Northeast Heat Wave: Power Companies Say They’re Ready For Potentially Record-High Temps

The first day of summer could bring record high temperatures as the Northeast deals with a heat wave that could bring 96 degree-temperatures to New York City on Wednesday, with 97 on Thursday, but power companies say they are ready to deal with the energy demands.

The Chicago Tribune reports that PJM spokesman Ray Dotter stated:

“We expect to have sufficient power supplies, and the reserves are covered for the day.”

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory until Thursday in the area where average highs this time of year is usually 81 degrees. With most people running air conditioners more than normal in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, demand for power will see a spike, but nowhere near record highs.

KGMI reports that Connie Vincent, a mail carrier, began her rounds in a residential area in Manchester, Connecticut, and was already sweating. She stated, dabbing her face with a wet washcloth, that:

“There’s nothing you can do. Tomorrow’s my day off, thank God. I’ve just got to make it through today.”

According to Blue Ridge Now, health officials are warning residents to drink plenty of water, stay out of the sun, turn on the a/c, and to check on elderly neighbors and pets. Cooling centers have been set up in public buildings in several cities for those without air conditioning.

Even in the Midwest, residents are seeing higher temperatures, and barely to no rain. Sci-Tech Today reports that Aurora, Illinois resident Jim Pedderson’s lawn, which was green in March, looks “like straw,” according to Pedderson. He blames the 90 degree temperatures, along with a noticeable lack of rain. Speaking of the heat and humidity, Pedderson says, “Hopefully it won’t last long.”

AccuWeather meteorologist Tom Kines doesn’t expect it to. More than likely, it will only be for a few days. Kines predicts:

“While Friday will be humid, it won’t be quite as warm, and there will be clouds and thunderstorms. In the Northeast, it will cool down over the weekend as a cold front moves through, and next week in general will feature temperatures at or below normal.”

So Northeast (and Midwest) residents, look forward to cooler temperatures this weekend as the heat wave ends–for now.