More Newsom Worries: Drought Raising Concerns About Power Shortages In State

(Sacramento, CA) — The statewide drought is leading to concerns about power outages in California. Water levels at lakes and reservoirs are so low The Water Authority in the Sacramento area is asking residents to reduce usage by 10 percent to conserve water at Folsom Lake. Elliot Mainzer from Cal-ISO says even with a reduction of hydropower from depleted lakes, he’s guardedly optimistic that blackouts will not happen. Most local officials note if prolonged heat waves occur this summer, the only way to enforce conservation will be if the governor declares a statewide emergency- which he may be less likely to do as he faces a recall election.