Xcel Energy announced on March 14 that hundreds of crew members are being deployed to inspect and repair power lines following an extreme wind event in Colorado. The company said ongoing high winds and fire weather conditions may cause additional outages, and some customers could remain without power through the weekend.
The restoration process is expected to be affected by both the severity of system damage and continued adverse weather. Xcel Energy emphasized that even after winds subside, crews must patrol each line before re-energizing it to ensure safety. The company also acknowledged a small number of customers have been without power since Thursday’s wind event.
A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) was implemented to reduce wildfire risk, with decisions based on factors such as high winds, low humidity, and dry ground conditions. Xcel Energy reminded customers that outages can occur outside PSPS events due to weather impacts on the grid, including for those whose power lines are underground or who do not see visible damage nearby.
To support affected residents, a resource center has been set up at the North Boulder Recreation Center until 8 p.m., where an Xcel Energy RED Truck is providing information. Customers needing food assistance are encouraged to use the Find Food Map for local resources. Outages and damage can be reported via the Xcel Energy mobile app, website, text message, or phone call.
The company advised customers to stay clear of downed lines and prepare for possible extended outages by assembling emergency kits with essentials like battery-powered radios, flashlights, bottled water, non-perishable food, and backup chargers. Those relying on medical equipment powered by electricity were urged to take extra precautions.
Xcel Energy stated it continues investing in its systems to reduce wildfire risks and limit disruptions. In 2024 alone, improvements included replacing over 8,000 distribution poles and inspecting nearly 19,000 more as part of its ongoing Wildfire Mitigation work begun in 2020.
