In light of disruptions of service, authorities are urging people to conserve natural gas usage.

The Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office says nearly 160 homes in Baldwin Township experienced disrupted service and lost their heat due to a constant strain on the Xcel Energy system. These residents now might not regain their heat until Friday.

County residents using Xcel are being asked to turn their thermostats down to 60 degrees and to avoid or use less of gas appliances. While the weather is extremely cold, there are dangers of relying too heavily on gas appliances to stay warm.

Sheriff Joel Blott says, "Any further strain on the system could cause cascading service disruptions throughout the county."

Xcel customers in Chisago, Isanti, and Lindstrom are also being advised to conserve their natural gas.