Xcel Energy announced on March 14 that hundreds of crew members are being deployed to inspect and repair power lines following an extreme wind event in Colorado. The company said ongoing high winds and fire weather conditions may cause additional outages, and some customers could remain without power through the weekend.
The restoration process is expected to be delayed due to continued high winds and the extent of damage across the system. Xcel Energy stated that even after winds subside, crews must patrol each line before re-energizing it to ensure safety. The company also acknowledged a small number of customers have been without power since Thursday’s wind event.
A Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) was implemented to reduce wildfire risk, with Xcel Energy using weather forecasts and data sources to determine when such measures are necessary. Factors influencing PSPS events include high winds, low humidity, and dry ground conditions. Customers with underground lines or no visible damage nearby may still experience outages due to how neighborhoods connect to the larger grid.
To support affected residents, a resource center has been set up at North Boulder Recreation Center until 8 p.m., where an Xcel Energy RED Truck is providing information. Customers needing food assistance can use the Find Food Map for local resources. Outages or damaged lines can be reported via the Xcel Energy mobile app, website, text message, or by phone.
Xcel Energy encourages customers to prepare for outages by keeping devices charged and assembling emergency kits with essentials like flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, and first aid supplies. Those relying on medical equipment powered by electricity are urged to take extra precautions for potential extended outages.
The company highlighted its ongoing investments in wildfire mitigation since 2020, including replacing thousands of distribution poles and inspecting miles of transmission lines in 2024. Updates on outage status and safety tips are available on Xcel Energy’s website and social media channels.
