Xcel Energy is preparing for a period of severe fire weather forecast to begin Friday, January 16, in parts of northern Colorado. The company is monitoring conditions such as strong winds, low humidity, and dry ground in limited areas within Larimer and Weld counties, including portions of Fort Collins and surrounding communities.
The ongoing dry conditions and high winds may increase the risk of wildfires. Xcel Energy stated that it will continue to assess the situation and consider wildfire mitigation measures, which could include public safety power shutoffs (PSPS). The company plans to update customers later today.
Due to expected wind conditions, some customers may experience power outages. “Xcel Energy’s top priority is protecting customers and communities and is committed to taking any necessary steps while also communicating quickly and clearly with customers on evolving weather conditions,” according to the company.
Xcel Energy uses weather forecasts and data sources to guide its response. Risk models are updated regularly based on factors like high winds, low humidity, dry ground fuels, persistent dry weather, and historically low snowpack in the region.
The company explained that Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS) and Public Safety Power Shutoffs are among its primary strategies for reducing wildfire risk. A PSPS involves shutting off power temporarily in targeted areas when wildfire risks are very high. Customers who might be affected will be notified if a PSPS becomes necessary. At this time, Xcel Energy is evaluating whether a PSPS will be needed for a small number of customers starting around 7 a.m. on January 16 in parts of Larimer and Weld counties.
If implemented, the number of affected customers would be significantly lower than those impacted by similar events in December 2025 in Denver and Boulder areas. The company’s goal is to limit disruption while managing wildfire risks effectively.
Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings make power lines more sensitive so they can instantly stop electricity flow if an issue—such as contact with debris—is detected. Outages during EPSS activation occur only if there is an actual problem on the line; restoration requires crews to visually inspect lines before re-energizing them.
Customers are encouraged to prepare for possible outages by charging devices ahead of time and assembling emergency kits with essentials like battery-powered radios, flashlights, backup chargers, bottled water, non-perishable food items, first aid supplies, extension cords, manual can openers, non-electric alarm clocks or phones not requiring electricity.
Those who rely on medical equipment powered by electricity should arrange backup supplies; Xcel Energy will contact qualifying medical customers directly regarding potential impacts from severe weather.
Updates about this specific event will be posted on Xcel Energy’s website. Customers should ensure their account information is current via My Account settings for timely notifications about outages or restoration efforts. They can check outage status using Xcel’s statewide outage map or report outages through multiple channels: mobile app (Apple App Store or Google Play), online at xcelenergy.com/outage-map/, by texting OUT or STAT to 98936 for reporting/checking status respectively—or calling 1-800-895-1999.
Xcel Energy continues investing in electric system improvements aimed at reducing wildfire risk as well as minimizing size/duration of disruptions when they occur.
“Xcel Energy’s top priority is protecting customers and communities and is committed to taking any necessary steps while also communicating quickly and clearly with customers on evolving weather conditions.”
The company serves millions across eight states from its headquarters in Minneapolis: Minnesota, Colorado, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, New Mexico,and Texas.
