Washington Utilities Prohibited from Shutting Off Power During Heatwave, New Law States
As temperatures continue to rise in Washington, residents can rest assured that their electricity will not be shut off during a heatwave. A new law passed by the state legislature prohibits utility services from disconnecting power due to nonpayment during periods of extreme heat. The law, signed by Governor Jay Inslee in April, will go into effect on July 23.
With the memory of the scorching heatwave that hit the state in 2021, resulting in the tragic deaths of 100 people due to heat-related illnesses, the new legislation aims to prioritize residents’ safety during periods of extreme heat. A recent study from the University of Washington projects that heat-related deaths in the state will increase by 35% by 2030 and continue to rise in the coming decades.
The North American Electric Reliability Corporation has identified Washington and the Pacific Northwest’s electric grid as vulnerable to above-normal temperatures this summer. While the grid carries an elevated risk during periods of extreme heat, it is important to differentiate between grid failure and rolling blackouts. Grid failure occurs when electricity demand surpasses the grid’s output, causing the entire system to crash. Rolling blackouts, on the other hand, are a last-ditch effort to prevent the grid from short-circuiting.
To stay informed during power outages, residents can utilize the interactive outage dashboard provided by the Washington State Department of Commerce. The tool displays outage information, including the estimated duration, the affected electric utility company, and the cause of the outage. It also provides data on the number of households impacted.
In terms of warning residents about dangerous heat, the National Weather Service issues heat warnings when the heat index temperature is projected to reach 105 degrees or higher and the nighttime low doesn’t drop below 75 degrees for at least two days. Heat warnings serve as a reminder for residents to take precautions and prepare for the extreme weather conditions.
While the new law provides reassurance to residents that they will not lose access to power during a heatwave, it is crucial for individuals to stay indoors and seek air-conditioned locations whenever possible. As temperatures continue to climb and heatwaves become more frequent, it is essential for everyone to prioritize their safety and take measures to stay cool during extreme heat events.
With the implementation of the new law and the availability of resources such as the outage dashboard, Washington is taking important steps to protect residents from the dangers of extreme heat. By ensuring access to electricity during heatwaves, the state is prioritizing the well-being and safety of its residents. It is a proactive approach that recognizes the increasing risks posed by rising temperatures and serves as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.
In conclusion, Washington residents can now have peace of mind knowing that their power will not be shut off during a heatwave. With the new law in effect, the state is working towards a safer and more resilient future, protecting its residents from the devastating impacts of extreme heat.
