No Power, No Problem—Here’s How to Stay Cool
Published Jul 23, 2025
As temperatures climb, grid stress may cause power cuts. Be ready with battery-powered fans and lights, frozen water bottles in a cooler, and fully charged phones. Stay informed with weather alerts and make a backup plan to stay cool and safe if the AC goes out.
Staying cool during power outages in summer
As summer temperatures soar, the risk of power outages due to grid stress becomes a real concern. Being prepared for these situations is crucial to ensure your comfort and safety. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to stay cool when the power goes out.
Monitor weather forecasts and prepare backup plans
The first step in managing a power outage during hot weather is to stay informed. Monitor weather forecasts and alerts from reliable sources. Understanding the potential for heat waves and grid stress allows you to prepare proactively.
Sign up for real-time weather alerts
Sign up for weather alerts on your smartphone or radio. Many weather apps provide real-time updates and warnings about extreme heat and potential power outages.
Develop a plan for staying cool
Develop a backup plan for staying cool. This might involve identifying a local cooling center, a friend's house with power, or a community shelter.
Key supplies for outage comfort and safety
Having the right supplies on hand can make a significant difference in your comfort and safety during a power outage.
Use fans and lights for air, visibility
Invest in battery-powered fans to circulate air and provide relief from the heat. Battery-powered lights are essential for navigating your home safely in the dark.
Freeze water bottles to keep cool
Freeze several water bottles in advance. These can be placed in a cooler to keep food and drinks cold, and you can also use them to cool down by holding them against your skin.
Keep phones charged for communication, information
Ensure your mobile phones and power banks are fully charged. These will allow you to stay connected, access information, and contact emergency services if needed.
Use cooler with ice to preserve food
A well-insulated cooler filled with ice can keep perishable foods and beverages cold for an extended period. This is especially important if the power outage lasts for several hours.
Effective cooling strategies during power outages
When the power goes out, implementing effective cooling strategies can help you stay comfortable and safe.
Drink water to avoid dehydration
Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, as they can exacerbate dehydration.
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing in outages
Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Dark colors absorb more heat, while light colors reflect it.
Apply cool cloths to lower body temperature
Apply cool, damp cloths to your forehead, neck, and wrists. This can help lower your body temperature.
Reduce physical activity, rest, stay cool
Reduce physical activity to minimize heat production. Rest in the coolest part of your home.
Ventilate at night, block heat during day
Open windows at night to allow cooler air to circulate, and close them during the day to keep the heat out. Use curtains or blinds to block sunlight.
Safety measures to take during outages
Safety Precautions
Limit activities that can lead to overheating
Limit strenuous activities that can lead to overheating.
Ensure vulnerable individuals stay safe, comfortable
Regularly check on elderly neighbors, infants, and individuals with chronic health conditions. These groups are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Know heat exhaustion and heatstroke symptoms
Be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know exhibits these symptoms.
Mitigate impact of outages long-term
While preparedness is essential, consider long-term solutions to mitigate the impact of power outages.
Use generator for backup power
A generator can provide backup power for essential appliances and cooling systems. Ensure it is properly installed and operated in a well-ventilated area.
Use solar panels for sustainable power
Solar panels with battery storage can provide a sustainable source of backup power during outages.
Stay prepared, informed, and cool
By taking these steps, you can effectively manage the challenges of a power outage during hot weather and ensure your safety and comfort. Stay prepared, stay informed, and stay cool.
Weather stories around you