Heat Wave Raises Concerns Over Power Disconnections in Georgia and Missouri

AUGUSTA, Ga. – With a heat wave gripping the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), living without air conditioning can become life-threatening. The recent warnings from the National Weather Service highlight concerns over power disconnections due to non-payment.

According to the Georgia Public Service Commission, rules are in place to prevent electric service disconnections during heat advisories. Georgia Power cannot cut off electric service to residential customers if a heat advisory is in effect before 8:00 A.M. on the scheduled disconnection date.

This rule specifically applies to Georgia Power, and the Public Service Commission recommends that customers using municipal electric systems contact their provider if they are at risk of service disconnection.

In related news from Missouri, a woman was found dead in her apartment that lacked air conditioning, raising alarms over utility disconnections amid extreme heat. Shauna Thomas, 55, had her power shut off on June 11 for non-payment, just before temperatures soared and heat advisories were issued.

St. Ann Police Maj. Blake Carrigan reported that officers found her apartment extremely hot upon arrival. Investigators from the St. Louis County Medical Examiner’s office stated that they were looking into whether the heat contributed to her death, which is currently considered due to natural causes.

Experts emphasize that high temperatures can exacerbate existing health conditions, making heat one of the deadliest weather events in the U.S.

Ameren Missouri, the utility provider, stated it had disconnected over 31,000 households in the first five months of the year alone. The utility has recently implemented disconnection moratoriums in some areas affected by severe weather.

Sandra Padgett, executive director of the Consumers Council of Missouri, expressed concern over the lack of planning for such high disconnection rates amid dangerously high temperatures. Padgett advocates for expanding protections against power disconnections during extreme heat periods.

Experts advise residents to stay hydrated, wear loose clothing, and seek air-conditioned environments during the ongoing heat wave. In the CSRA, public resources are available for those unable to afford cooling assistance.