Pierre & Fort Pierre residents ask to watch energy use in the heat wave

PIERRE, S.D.(KCCR)- Monday was one of the warmest days of the year as temps skyrocketed over 100 degrees in many central South Dakota locations.  Residents of the City of Fort Pierre, much like their neighbors to the east in Pierre are being asked to watch energy use.

Public Works Director Rick Hahn says water from flooding on the Yellowstone River is barely making a dent in refilling the main stem reservoir system on the Missouri River.  And while Pierre residents were asked to prepare for the possibility of temporary blackouts, which is less of a concern for Fort Pierre.

But, falling back on the generation station comes with its own downfalls.

Hahn suggests shutting off unneeded electrical devices like TVs and computers if you’re not using them; raising your thermostat a few degrees or buying energy-efficient appliances.  Temperatures across central South Dakota soared Monday to 108 at Pierre with a max heat index of 112; 106 at Polo and Presho and 110 in Philip.  In Philip, the six-hour minimum temperature was 102.  A number of locations hit 105 including Gann Valley, Whitlock Bay, Timber Lake, Orient and the Chantier Creek Rec Area.