Watch CBS News

UDPATE: Extreme Cold In U.S. Causing Natural Gas Shortage At Southern Calif. Power Plants

LOS ANGELES (AP) — California's power grid operator has asked for voluntary conservation of power because the extreme cold in much of the United States and Canada has caused a shortage of natural gas supplies to Southern California power plants.

The California Independent System Operator issued a so-called Flex Alert until 10 p.m. Thursday.

The natural gas shortage is only impacting Southern California power plants, but authorities say statewide electricity and gas conservation will help free up both electricity and gas supplies.

Flex Alerts are usually associated with power demands for cooling during California summers.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.