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Power Grid Officials Issue Stage One Alert

High temperatures across the state have prompted action by Governor Schwarzenegger - and caution about the state's power use. The agency that manages the power grid - CAL ISO -- has called a Stage One

High temperatures across the state have prompted action by Governor Schwarzenegger - and caution about the state's power use. The agency that manages the power grid - CAL ISO -- has called a Stage One Emergency. That means they're dipping into their energy reserves, and are asking Californians to reduce electricity use. Spokesman Gregg Fishman says it's the first such emergency this year:

Fishman: We're going to see the highest energy demand of the year so far today, and probably again on Thursday -- up into the 48,000 megawatt range. That's shy of our all-time record peak, which is 50,270 megawatts, but it's still very high.

ISO doesn't expect any blackouts today. The emergency is in effect until 8 this evening.    Because of the heat forecasted over the next several days, Governor Schwarzenegger is also urging Californians to take precautions

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Schwarzenegger: If it is drinking plenty of water which is another important thing - stay indoors as much as you can and check on your neighbors, family and pets.

Schwarzenegger has also ordered agencies to open cooling centers at some state fairgrounds.

A big decision awaits some voters this July as the race for San Diego County’s Supervisor District 1 seat heats up. Are you ready to vote? Check out the KPBS Voter Hub to learn about the candidates, the key issues the board is facing and how you can make your voice heard.