BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Spring arrived with summerlike heat as temperatures climbed well above normal, driven by a strong high-pressure system over the Southwest.
Emily Wilson, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, said a powerful ridge of high pressure is responsible for the unusual warmth. “We’re having a very strong ridge form over much of the Southwestand thats basically causing the temperatures to rise very dramatically for our area,” Wilson said. She said average temperatures for this time of year are typically much cooler. “Our averages for this time of year are about 70 degrees,” Wilson said.
With the heat arriving early, some residents said they are trying to limit air conditioner use. Miguel, an Oildale resident, said, “Just trying to stay inside the house and turn the AC in the morning.”
PG&E spokesperson Jeff Smith said the utility typically sees higher electricity usage during the summer months of June, July and August, but this month could be different because of the early heat. “Seeing 90 plus degree temperatures in March is certainly unusual,” Smith said.
Smith said PG&E expects demand to rise but is not concerned about impacts to the overall power grid. While the grid is expected to remain stable, increased air conditioner use can still drive up individual household costs. He said the bigger effect for many customers could be a higher monthly bills. Because the heat is arriving earlier than usual, customers may see higher-than-expected energy use reflected in their April bills. “Really the biggest driver of customers energy costs is always going to be the air conditioner,” Smith said…