The Imperial Irrigation District’s “conserve alert,” issued last week due to an excessive heat warning in the Coachella Valley, was extended Monday until July 9.
The alert is a call to reduce energy use as the demand for power could outstrip supply. Customers were encouraged to conserve energy in the peak evening hours of 4 to 9 p.m. for an additional seven days.
Conserve alerts are issued when electrical demand is high, which generally occurs during heat waves. According to the National Weather Service, an excessive heat warning will be in effect for the Coachella Valley through Tuesday night, with temperatures of up to 117 degrees expected.
IID encouraged customers to set their thermostats to 78 degrees or higher, avoid using major appliances, turn off unnecessary lights, unplug or turn off unused electrical devices, keep blinds and drapes closed, and use floor or ceiling fans when possible.
IID provides power to La Quinta, Indio, Coachella, Bermuda Dunes and other unincorporated areas, as well as small parts of Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells.
More information can be found at iid.com/conservealert.