Q&A: Heat wave and the power grid

More than 2 million people around the country are enduring another day without electricity in the aftermath of severe summer storms. The power outages extend from North Carolina to New Jersey, and as far west as Illinois.

Utility officials in those areas say the power will probably be out for several more days for some people. Since Friday, severe weather has been blamed for at least 22 deaths, most from trees that fell on homes and cars.

As Minnesota's heat wave continues, MPR News spoke with Laura McCarten, regional vice president of Xcel Energy, about whether the eastern blackouts could affect the state power grid.

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