PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh region will experience a severe heat wave beginning Sunday, June 16, through at least Thursday, June 20. Temperatures are expected to rise into the high 90s and will break 100 in some areas. With this forecast, Duquesne Light Company (DLC) is advising customers to be prepared for potential power outages. Even without severe storms, power loss can occur during periods of high temperatures due to additional stress on the system and equipment.
DLC has increased staffing to ensure that any outages are responded to safely and as quickly as possible.
In the event of an outage, customers can follow these steps to stay safe and cool:
- Ensure that cell phones and other necessary electronics are fully charged.
- Drink plenty of water and have ice handy to use for cooling packs.
- Keep supplies in an emergency preparedness kit, including water bottles, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, flashlights and a battery-powered radio.
- Avoid opening refrigerator and freezer doors. Food will stay frozen in a fully loaded freezer for 36-48 hours if the door remains closed.
- Seek a location with air conditioning when possible. Starting Monday, June 17, the city of Pittsburgh will activate cooling centers throughout the area. Reach out to your local municipality for up-to-date information on these centers.
Customers should always call 9-1-1 for any emergency medical issues that could be impacted by an outage. Because of the intense heat that is forecasted, DLC also advises checking on elderly family members, friends and neighbors who live alone.