Xcel Energy is preparing for a potential period of extreme fire weather in northern Colorado, which may result in a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) on Friday, January 16. The company cites ongoing dry conditions, low humidity, and strong winds as factors increasing the risk of wildfires.
The planned PSPS could affect about 9,000 customers in Larimer and Weld counties, including areas of Fort Collins and neighboring communities. Weather forecasts suggest that the risk may subside by Friday afternoon.
If the shutoff or other outages occur due to weather conditions, Xcel Energy says restoration efforts will begin once it is safe. Crews will be ready to inspect and repair lines after high winds pass. Customers are advised that restoring power could take from several hours up to several days because safety checks must be completed before re-energizing lines.
Updates on this event and customer preparation tips are available on Xcel Energy’s Event Update webpage. The company plans to provide another update Thursday morning.
Robert Kenney, president of Xcel Energy—Colorado, said: “While wind speeds will be at the lower end of our thresholds for a PSPS, an unusually mild start to winter has contributed to historically dry conditions that create high risk for wildfires. In the event of a Public Safety Power Shutoff, we will work to limit the number of those impacted and are preparing to ensure a quick restoration of power. We recognize that any amount of time without power is a hardship. As always, our crews will work as safely and quickly as they can to restore power in the event of a PSPS or other weather-related outages.”
Customers who may be affected can check their address online for information about possible shutoffs.
To prepare for potential outages, Xcel Energy recommends customers keep devices charged and assemble emergency kits with essential supplies such as battery-powered radios, flashlights, bottled water, non-perishable food items, manual can openers, backup phone chargers and first aid kits. Those who depend on medical equipment requiring electricity should make additional preparations for extended outages.
The company encourages customers to report outages using its mobile app (available through the Apple App Store and Google Play), online outage reporting tool at xcelenergy.com/out , via text message by sending OUT or STAT to 98936 , or by calling 1-800-895-1999 .
Xcel Energy serves millions across eight states—Minnesota, Colorado, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, New Mexico and Texas—and emphasizes its commitment to reliable service while leading clean energy initiatives. More information is available at xcelenergy.com .
