California issues Flex Alert because of heat
Temperatures broke records in San Jose on June 18, 2017
(AP) The operator of California's power grid is calling for voluntary conservation of electricity as an intense heat wave broils the state.
The California Independent System Operator says the so-called Flex Alert will be in effect from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday.
Energy demand for the day is forecast to exceed 48,000 megawatts, which would be the highest demand on the grid so far this year.
Officials urge consumers to particularly conserve in the late afternoon because that's when air conditioners typically at peak use.
Major appliances should be used before or after the Flex Alert period and air conditioners should be set at 78 degrees or higher.