Xcel Warns of Possible Power Shutoffs in Colorado

Colorado residents should be prepared for wind later this week. With the threat of high winds, there is also the possibility of critical fire weather conditions across the Front Range of Colorado.

According to the National Weather Service in Boulder, critical fire weather conditions will be accelerating later this week and into the weekend. Low humidity, strong winds, and dry vegetation are prime factors in wildfires.

Power Shutoffs Possible From Xcel Energy

As we have seen in the past few months with weather events such as these, power has been shut off to many in areas where wildfires pose the most risk by Xcel Energy. This could be another one of those weather events.

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Customers, especially along the Front Range of Colorado, are being encouraged to prepare for weather-related outages throughout the rest of the week. These power outages are what is known as a Public Safety Power Shutoff, in hopes that the lack of electric lines will reduce the chances of wildfires.

Thursday Could Be the Most Dangerous Day

Xcel Energy has said that Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings are already active across the Front Range of Colorado's service territory. Thursday is the day that poses the most threat, as it will be very windy throughout the plains of Colorado and most areas of the foothills.

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Xcel Energy's Elevated Wildfire Risk Event Updates page says that if an event, such as a Public Safety Power Shutoff, is planned for a specific area, the utility company will make attempts to contact impacted customers via phone or email up to 48 hours before the event. However, emergencies may not allow for contact to be made prior to power shutoffs. More information on Xcel Energy's Public Safety Power Shutoffs can be seen at xcelenergy.com.