Xcel Energy is monitoring and preparing for a period of severe fire weather expected to affect parts of northern Colorado later this week. According to the company, forecasts indicate strong winds, low humidity, and dry ground conditions beginning Friday, January 16, in specific areas within Larimer and Weld counties. This includes portions of Fort Collins and surrounding communities to the north and west.
The company said that ongoing dry weather in the region, combined with high winds, may increase the risk of wildfires. Xcel Energy stated it will continue to evaluate conditions and consider wildfire mitigation actions such as public safety power shutoffs (PSPS), with updates to be provided to customers and the community later today.
Some customers may experience power outages due to wind conditions. The company said its crews will restore power as soon as it is safe to do so. “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.”
Xcel Energy is considering a Public Safety Power Shutoff for Friday, January 16, in limited areas of Larimer and Weld counties. The company expects that if a PSPS event occurs, fewer customers will be affected compared to similar events in December 2025 in Denver and Boulder. “The company’s goal is to limit impacts as much as possible while effectively managing high wildfire risk.”
Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS) are also expected to be activated. When these settings are on, power lines can instantly stop the flow of electricity if an issue such as a tree branch touching the line is detected. Outages that occur under EPSS activation are caused by issues on the line rather than proactive shutdowns by Xcel Energy. Power will remain off until crews can inspect lines for safety, which could mean longer outages.
Customers are encouraged to prepare for possible outages by building emergency kits containing items like battery-powered radios, flashlights, batteries, backup phone chargers, bottled water, non-perishable food, manual can openers, first aid kits, extension cords for partial outages, manufacturer’s instructions for manually opening power-operated doors such as garage doors, and Xcel Energy contact numbers.
Those who rely on medical equipment powered by electricity should arrange backup power supplies in case of outages. Xcel Energy noted it would directly contact qualifying medical customers about forecasted severe weather.
The company continues investing in its electric systems to reduce wildfire risks and minimize disruptions’ size or duration. Customers can find more information about outage preparation on Xcel Energy’s website.
To report outages or check status updates during severe weather events:
– Use the Xcel Energy mobile app available through Apple App Store or Google Play.
– Visit xcelenergy.com/out.
– Text OUT to 98936 or STAT for outage status.
– Call 1-800-895-1999.
Xcel Energy serves millions of customers across eight states: Minnesota, Colorado, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, New Mexico and Texas. More information about their services can be found at xcelenergy.com or through their social media channels.
