Xcel Energy has initiated a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) affecting approximately 9,000 customers in Larimer and Weld counties, northern Colorado. The measure comes as the National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning due to strong winds with gusts up to 70 mph, low humidity, and very dry ground conditions. These factors, combined with historically low snowpack, have created an extreme wildfire risk.
According to Xcel Energy, strong winds increase the risk of damage to power infrastructure and may lead to additional outages beyond those directly affected by the PSPS. Customers outside the designated shutoff area could still experience outages because of severe weather or Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS), which are active in the region. The company is encouraging all customers to report any visible damage to power lines and stay away from downed lines.
The utility relies on weather forecasts and other data sources when deciding how best to protect public safety. “High winds, low relative humidity and dry ground conditions are key factors in risk models,” according to Xcel Energy.
Weather conditions are expected to improve around 4 p.m., but restoration work will not begin until high winds and fire risks subside. Restoration could take several hours or even days since crews must inspect each power line before re-energizing it. The company expects many customers will have their power restored today, with most service returning by Saturday.
Crews from across Colorado will be working extended shifts overnight Friday into Saturday as part of efforts to restore electricity safely and efficiently. Work will continue around the clock until all affected customers have service restored.
Xcel Energy acknowledges that widespread outages are disruptive but states its goal is “to limit the impact of a PSPS event as much as possible while effectively managing high wildfire risk.” The company plans ongoing communication about outage status and restoration progress through its website, where customers can check if they are included in the PSPS event.
Customers can report outages using several methods: via the Xcel Energy mobile app available on Apple App Store or Google Play; online at xcelenergy.com/out; by texting OUT or STAT to 98936; or by calling 1-800-895-1999 for automated reporting.
The company advises residents to prepare for potential outages by keeping devices charged and assembling an emergency kit with essentials such as battery-powered radios, flashlights, bottled water, non-perishable food, manual can openers, first aid kits, extension cords, and instructions for manually opening electric doors. Customers who rely on electrically powered medical equipment should make special preparations for possible extended outages.
Xcel Energy says it continues investing in systems designed to reduce wildfire risk and minimize disruption from power shutoffs. Additional information on preparing for outages is available on its website.
Xcel Energy serves millions of customers across eight states including Colorado. Headquartered in Minneapolis, it provides electricity and gas services while aiming for reliable operations and a transition toward cleaner energy sources.
