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A rotating outage is also called a rolling blackout, and it is a power cut done deliberately in order to reduce the strain on an electricity grid/generating system. Rotating outages usually happen when demand grows faster than supply, but they can also stem from production issues, a shortage of fuel, and outdated grids. Developing nations have a lot of problems with rotating outages, but more developed countries still struggle with them from time to time.
Because rotating outages are deliberately done, they are much less likely to cause damage to the power grid than an unexpected power outage. Power companies use rotating outages only as a last resort, and they try to cut power to the least number of customers possible. Depending on the location, rotating outages can last anywhere from an hour to an entire night.
Usually, independent monitors keep tabs on the power grid, and as they see an increase in demand, they may make announcements asking customers to decrease power usage in order to keep the rolling blackouts from happening. If power supplies go below a certain level, the monitoring agency will use rotating outages or brownouts. These "roll" in order to ensure that power is not cut to a large section of the grid at any one time.
Power customers are divided into prioritized blocks. These are evenly distributed across the grid, to ensure that power is not cut to an entire community. This is done for safety reasons, as there has been established a link between long power outages and increased crime. Usually, hospitals and fire/police stations are not affected by rotating outages. Knowing what outage block you're in can allow you to plan ahead; most utility companies display your block on your monthly bill. Knowing your block number will help you determine when you'll lose power, most utilities provide current information on grid status. California is known for rotating outages, and its only exempt block is Block 50.
If you need electricity to run medical equipment such as an oxygen machine, you can request to be notified when power will be cut so that you can make other arrangements. The disabled and the elderly should use shelters when the weather is hot and power is cut. Getting power back after a rotating outage can damage appliances, so you should make sure that all your electronics are turned off during that time. Turn them back on slowly after the outage is over in order to avoid a sudden power surge.
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