Excel Reports Extermely High Temperatures Causing Peaking Energy Usage

With temperatures easily topping over 102 degrees on a regular basis in Amarillo, Excel Energy is reporting that energy usage has spiked even higher than the highest point last year. When temperatures reach triple digits, people crank up the air conditioners.

"It's been 13 years since we had a June peak, and that was June 30, almost July," said Xcel spokesman Wes Reeves.

With temperatures reaching 107 by 3:30 in the afternoon on Thursday, there was no doubt we would surpass peak numbers. Extreme Temperatures and drought conditions are even affecting local fire houses as Randall County Judge Ernie Houdashell announced a water shortage at the Randall County Fire Station #1. at Washington and Claude Highway.

"Our pump is not pumping anything," Houdashell said. "And we're getting calls from residents here."

After residents in the area turned down joining the High Plains Underground Water District No. 1, now they are running out of water and more than likely re-thinking their decision.

"I think the thing people are missing out on not being in a district is having a voice at the table and protection of their natural resource," Houdashell said after the election.