Thousands Lose Power in New York as Extreme Heat Strains Con Edison Grid

Thousands of Con Edison customers across New York remained without electricity as an intense heat wave continued to strain the city’s power grid, with soaring temperatures and heavy air-conditioning use driving record demand for electricity.

Con Edison said it has restored service to more than 60,000 customers affected by scattered outages since the heat wave began. However, more than 22,000 customers were still without power, with the hardest-hit areas including Queens and the Bronx.

To prevent widespread system failures, the utility earlier reduced voltage in several neighborhoods, including Richmond Hill and Flushing in Queens, as well as Riverdale in the Bronx. The company also urged customers to conserve electricity by limiting unnecessary power use between 2:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., when demand is typically at its peak.

The outages come as a prolonged heat wave grips much of the eastern United States, bringing dangerously high temperatures and humidity. The surge in electricity demand, driven largely by widespread air-conditioner use, has placed significant pressure on the region’s power infrastructure.

The extreme weather has also disrupted Independence Day celebrations in several states, prompting officials to cancel or postpone parades, concerts, and other outdoor events because of the dangerous heat.

Authorities continue to advise residents to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, remain in air-conditioned or cool environments whenever possible, and conserve electricity to help reduce stress on the power grid.