A statewide Flex Alert calling for power conservation was issued Thursday afternoon due to a natural gas shortage triggered by extreme cold weather in the United States and Canada, according to Cal ISO.
The Flex Alert, usually associated with the heat of summer months, was issued amid cool conditions and rain across the region. But weather in other parts of North America caused the problem, according to the system operator.
- Cal ISO: Today's Outlook
"A shortage of natural gas triggered by extreme cold weather in much of the United States and Canada is impacting fuel supplies to Southern CA power plants and reducing electricity generation," the operator's statement said.
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Customers are asked to reduce energy use between 1 p.m. and midnight to avoid power disruptions. Cal ISO suggests turning off unnecessary lights and waiting until after 6 p.m. to use major appliances.
