Xcel Energy has implemented a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) for customers in several Colorado counties, including Boulder, Clear Creek, Gilpin, Jefferson, Larimer, and Weld. The decision comes as the National Weather Service issued a Particularly Dangerous Situation (PDS) alert due to severe weather conditions with high winds and extreme fire risk.
The PSPS is intended to reduce wildfire risk and protect public safety. According to Xcel Energy, “Turning off the power is not a decision made lightly, and restoration will begin as soon as it is safe for crews to begin working. This effort could take several days to complete. Crews must inspect power lines and repair damage before they can be safely re-energized. As crews restore power, the public is reminded to give them the space they need to do their job safely and efficiently.”
Restoration efforts cannot start until weather conditions improve. The company reports that since Wednesday, over 200,000 customers have had power restored. However, ongoing high winds are expected to cause additional outages through Friday night. Customers may remain without power for several days while Xcel Energy crews assess and repair damage.
Xcel Energy emphasized that even neighborhoods with underground power lines or no visible damage may experience outages because of how local grids are connected. The company urges residents to report downed power lines or other damages using its mobile app, website, text messaging system, or by calling its automated phone line.
To support those affected by outages, Xcel Energy has partnered with the American Red Cross and local emergency management offices to open resource centers at locations in Evergreen, Black Hawk, Lakewood, and Idaho Springs. These centers provide phone charging stations and emergency supplies.
The company also advises customers to prepare for outages by keeping devices charged and assembling an emergency kit with essentials such as battery-powered radios, flashlights, bottled water, non-perishable food items, first aid kits, and backup chargers. Customers who rely on electrically powered medical equipment are encouraged to make preparations for possible extended outages.
Since starting its Wildfire Mitigation work in 2020, Xcel Energy has invested in various system improvements aimed at reducing wildfire risks and limiting disruptions from severe weather events. In 2024 alone, the company replaced thousands of distribution poles and inspected both distribution poles and transmission lines.
For more information about outage updates or preparation tips during severe weather events like this one, customers can visit the Xcel Energy Event Update webpage or follow the company on social media platforms such as Facebook and X.
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