The official start of summer is here, and this one is coming in hot! The National Weather Service has issued extreme heat advisories and watches for much of the central part of the United States. MISO’s meteorologists, forecast planners and operators always keep an eye to the sky and plan for whatever mother nature throws our way. Delivering consistent, dependable power across 15 states is our number one priority.  

Ensuring the grid is ready for summer is a year-round effort rooted in preparation, collaboration and a deep understanding of evolving system needs. As temperatures rise, so does pressure on the grid. Summer heat drives electricity demand to its highest levels, often straining both generation and transmission resources. While our projections show that there are enough resources to meet demand, risks always remain due to extreme weather and changes in the energy mix. 

Heat, Drought and the Weather Watch 

The summer forecast from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) projects above-normal temperatures across much of the MISO region, with the southern states seeing the most intense heat. In the central U.S., drier-than-normal conditions could intensify the impact of heatwaves and increase the risk of drought.  

Meanwhile, forecasters also predict a near- to slightly above-normal hurricane season in the Atlantic basin, which adds uncertainty, especially in MISO’s southern footprint. While tropical systems are typically monitored on shorter timescales, early activity remains a possibility. 

Operational Readiness, Strengthening the System 

To prepare for summertime weather each year, MISO and its members conduct summer preparedness drills and tabletop exercises. These sessions cover a range of scenarios, including severe weather and emergency load reductions.  The goal is to ensure strong alignment with our members and stakeholders during all operating conditions.  

We’ve also enhanced our ability to respond in real time. With improved forecasting tools, refined uncertainty models and more flexible operating reserves, our control room operators are prepared to adapt quickly as conditions evolve, especially with the variability that comes from solar and wind generation. 

This summer we enter the season with a clear-eyed view of emerging risks, the tools and resources needed to manage them, and robust reliability planning. Partnering with our members, we are prepared to keep the power flowing to the 45 million people who depend on us.