The heatwave is straining power grids across the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, increasing the risk of blackouts for millions of residents and businesses. High temperatures are driving electricity demand to near-record levels, with potential disruptions in areas served by PJM and MISO. Rural regions, such as Missouri's Ozark area, are particularly vulnerable, with local cooperatives advising energy-saving measures. Prolonged outages could impact essential services, air conditioning, and overall public safety during extreme heat conditions.