If the power grid goes down, Hoosiers will need to find other ways to cool off.

According to a new report, the Midwest is likely to experience power failures over the next few months. As people crank up their air-conditioning units and use more power, the energy grid may struggle to keep up.

Utility companies say that there is only a small chance of a power failure.

What is a rolling blackout?

A rolling power cut is when the power is turned off. The power grid needs this as a last resort.

An outage can affect one area for a certain amount of time and then shift to another area. It is rolling due to the outage rotating. Hospitals and other power sensitive areas are protected.

Electric Grid. High power electric transmission lines in Oklahoma City, Monday, October 18 2021.
Electric Grid. High power electric transmission lines in Oklahoma City, Monday, October 18 2021.

There is a risk of grid infrastructure overload and serious damage if there is a rolling blackout. Everyone would be without power if the grid was pushed.

Why could rolling blackouts happen here, and why now?

The power grid in the Midwest is at high risk of energy emergencies during the summer, according to the report.

The grid spans into 15 states and one Canadian province. PJM Interconnection is a power grid that is less stressed. Bloomington is dominated by MISO.

A Duke Energy lineman works on power lines in February 2011 in Charlotte, N.C. Although most power outages are due to damage to poles and lines, a grid-wide power outage would be something larger.
A Duke Energy lineman works on power lines in February 2011 in Charlotte, N.C. Although most power outages are due to damage to poles and lines, a grid-wide power outage would be something larger.

The MISO lost 2% of its generation capacity. Fossil- fueled plants were retired to make room for cleaner energy sources. The transmission line was shut down for maintenance.

There is more news about seeking a primary-care doctor. The wait for new patients is long.

The country is experiencing electricity shortages due to a number of issues.

Sanya Carley, Indiana University professor and energy policy researcher, said there are millions of people who are energy-insecure and struggle with the effects. Energy-insecure households can't provide for their energy needs or they can't connect to the grid.

How likely are blackouts in Indiana?

Brandon D. Morris said in an email statement that a last step to protect the electric grid is rolling black outs. He said that it has never been needed in Indiana.

He said that the alert doesn't mean power will go out. Emergency operating procedures may be needed to regulate energy use. He said that MISO has access to a lot of energy imports.

What can I do to prepare for extreme heat in Indiana?

The temperature is expected to be higher this summer in many parts of the country.

People can stay safe in extreme heat.

  • Don't forget to drink a lot of water.

  • Wear clothes that are light and loose.

  • At night time, open the windows.

  • The fridge and freezer should be kept closed.

  • If you have a carbon monoxide detector, make sure it's working.

  • It's a good idea to sit in a car's AC.

People should keep an eye on their pet's body temperature during heat waves.

If you want to cool off in Monroe County, you can go to the swimming pool.

The most advantaged people are those who can prepare for a power failure. Millions of people, including many in Indiana, don't have that luxury.

Carley said that older people and young people are more at risk from extreme heat and cold. The vulnerable populations need to be the most worried about finding other help.

She said that people can go to a mall where they can get an AC. She said that government and local nonprofits could create areas for people to escape the heat.

It is possible for people to coordinate with their neighbors. Carley's research shows that disconnected households can lose their entire fridge of food.

Carley said that people who rely on electronic medical devices might not be able to power them. If there isn't power, she suggests people talk to their doctor about their electric appliances. It's possible that a battery-powered or rechargeable alternative is an option.

Carley said it's difficult to keep your body at a comfortable temperature when you don't have power. It could be life threatening if you get overheated.

She is an intern at The Herald- Times. You can get in touch with her by email at ccharron@heraldt.com or on her verified account on social media.

The article was originally published on The Herald-Times.