With temperatures expected in the 90s all week with the accompanying air conditioning use and high electricity demand, Orange and Rockland Utilities has issued a Heat Watch for Monday, July 15 through Friday, July 19.

The heat and humidity are expected to push the load on the O&R electric system past 1,300 megawatts each day this week, triggering the Heat Watch. The peak electric demand forecasted for Monday is 1,475 megawatts.

The Heat Watch advisory means that electric distribution system engineers are closely monitoring the loads on distribution circuits, transformer banks and other key system components to detect any heat-related issues to make sure any concerns are addressed quickly. Field crews are at the ready to respond to any electric system problems as well.

O&R advises the public to take steps to most efficiently use electricity, including turning down or turning off air conditioning in empty houses while you are away or at work. When using a room air conditioner, close doors to keep the cool air in and the hot air out. If you have central air conditioning, block the vents in unused or vacant rooms.

AccuWeather predicts the stifling heat and humidity will continue through Friday, with some relief from both by the weekend. The good news is that this could be the last serious heat wave of the summer, according to long-range forecasts.

(YWN Monsey Newsroom)