Xcel Energy has announced it will carry out a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) in northern Colorado starting at approximately 8 a.m. on Friday. The action is intended to reduce wildfire risk and protect public safety, affecting about 9,000 customers in Larimer and Weld counties. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for the area due to expected strong winds of up to 65 mph, low humidity, and very dry ground conditions.
The company stated that high winds could also cause damage to power poles, potentially leading to additional outages beyond those planned under the PSPS. Customers outside the designated shutoff area may still experience service interruptions because of the severe weather or Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS), which will be activated throughout affected regions. Xcel Energy urges customers to report any observed damage to power lines and avoid downed lines.
Weather forecasts suggest conditions may improve around 4 p.m., but restoration efforts will not begin until winds decrease and fire risks are lower. The company noted that restoring power could take from several hours up to several days, as crews must inspect all affected lines before re-energizing them. Teams from across Colorado will work extended shifts through Friday night into Saturday, with restoration continuing around the clock until service is fully restored.
Recognizing the disruption caused by outages, Xcel Energy said its aim is “to limit impacts as much as possible while effectively managing high wildfire risk” and pledged ongoing communication with updates during the event. Customers can check their address online to determine if they are included in the PSPS event.
Customers are encouraged to report outages or damage through various methods: via the Xcel Energy mobile app available on Apple App Store and Google Play; online at xcelenergy.com/out; by texting OUT or STAT to 98936; or by calling 1-800-895-1999 for automated reporting.
Xcel Energy recommends that customers stay informed through its website and social media channels on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter). Customers should ensure their account information is current in My Account for timely notifications.
The company advises preparing an emergency kit with items such as battery-powered radios, flashlights, batteries, backup phone chargers, bottled water, non-perishable food, manual can openers, first aid kits, extension cords, manufacturer’s instructions for manually opening powered doors, and key contact numbers for Xcel Energy’s residential or business support lines. Customers who rely on medical equipment powered by electricity are urged to make preparations for potential extended outages; additional outreach will be conducted for qualifying medical customers.
Xcel Energy emphasized its continued investment in infrastructure improvements aimed at reducing wildfire risk and minimizing both the scope and duration of power disruptions.
According to information about Xcel Energy on its official website, the company serves millions of customers across eight states—Minnesota, Colorado, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, New Mexico and Texas—and is headquartered in Minneapolis.
“We make energy work better for customers, helping them thrive every day. That means always raising the bar — delivering better service and providing more reliable, resilient and sustainable energy,” according to a statement from Xcel Energy.
“We are committed to leading the clean energy transition, meeting our customers’ need for more cleaner power while keeping bills as low as possible. Because the people we serve depend on us to power their lives.”
For further details or updates about this event or other services provided by Xcel Energy visit their website or follow them on social media platforms.
