Utilities handling Stanislaus heat wave

MODESTO -- Electricity suppliers Thursday urged Californians to conserve power because of the high demand expected during the current heat wave.

The Modesto and Turlock irrigation districts joined in the call, but added that they have enough generating capacity to avoid disruptions in service.

The California Independent System Operator, which manages most of the state's grid, said a "Flex Alert" would be in effect from today through Sunday evening as temperatures climbing into the 100s in the state's interior regions are aggravated by rising humidity.

The Flex Alert calls on individuals, businesses and governments to voluntarily cut back on energy use between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. to prevent operating reserves from falling to emergency levels.

The TID projected peak demand of 556 megawatts Thursday, about 100 short of its record use, spokesman Herb Smart said.

The MID projected 615 megawatts Thursday, also well below its highest-ever use, spokeswoman Melissa Williams said.

Pacific Gas and Electric Co., which serves most of Northern California, offered this advice:

Adjust your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher or turn it off if you will be away from home.

Use a fan instead of air conditioning, when possible.

Draw drapes and turn off unnecessary lighting.

Keep the refrigerator full (with bottles of water if nothing else) and unplug the second refrigerator.

Put off tasks such as vacuuming, laundry, dish washing and computer time until after 6 p.m.

Set your pool pump to run overnight instead of during the day.

HEAT RECORDS

Temperatures are forecast to be well above 100 degrees through the weekend. Modesto hit 101 Thursday. Here are the record highs for Modesto for days through Monday:

• Aug. 9: 106 (1978)

• Aug. 10: 106 (1971)

• Aug. 11: 105 (1996)

• Aug. 12: 106 (1996)

• Aug. 13: 107 (1996)

Source: Modesto Irrigation District