TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas residents were asked Monday to conserve energy as utility companies began imposing rolling blackouts in response to exploding frigid temperatures and wind chills across the state.

Andrew French, chairman of the Kansas Corporation Commission, said at a news conference that some blackouts lasting 60 to 90 minutes were implemented in certain areas of Kansas early Monday.

He said the commission hoped further blackouts would not be necessary but more could be imposed if needed Monday evening or Tuesday, when demand will be high because of continued sub-freezing temperatur...