Hundreds of Xcel Energy workers are working to restore power to more than 80,000 customers in Colorado after severe winds caused widespread outages. The storm led the company to implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) on Friday in Boulder, Clear Creek, Gilpin, Jefferson, Larimer, and Weld counties due to extreme wildfire risk.
The National Weather Service has lifted its Red Flag Warning and Particularly Dangerous Situation designations. PSPS conditions eased as of 5 a.m. Saturday. Some customers have already had their power restored, and Xcel Energy expects most remaining customers will see service return by 10 p.m. tonight. However, restoration for some may extend into Sunday because of severe damage and challenging locations.
Xcel Energy stated that crews must visually inspect all lines before repairs can be made and power is restored. “The safety of crew members is paramount as they work to restore power,” the company said. Customers are asked to keep clear of crews at work and report any downed lines or damaged poles.
Throughout the week, Xcel Energy has communicated with affected customers using their preferred contact methods registered in My Account. Updates on restoration times continue as estimates are refined.
To support those impacted by outages, Xcel Energy is collaborating with the American Red Cross and local emergency management offices to provide resource centers across several communities. These centers offer phone charging stations and emergency supplies at various locations including Georgetown Community Center, Carmody Middle School in Lakewood, Gilpin County Overnight Shelter in Black Hawk, Evergreen Fire Station, Clear Creek Health and Wellness Center in Idaho Springs, and Berthoud Fire Station.
Additionally, Xcel Energy RED Trucks will be present at these sites offering information and support for customers. Individuals needing food assistance can find resources through the Find Food Map listing Hunger Relief Partners throughout Colorado.
Customers are encouraged to report outages or visible damage through multiple channels: the Xcel Energy mobile app (available via Apple App Store or Google Play), online at xcelenergy.com/out, by texting OUT or STAT to 98936 for outage status updates, or by calling 1-800-895-1999.
Further event updates can be found on the Xcel Energy Event Update webpage. Customers should also ensure their account details are current for timely communications about restoration progress.
Xcel Energy uses weather forecasts and other data sources when deciding whether to call a PSPS event; factors include high winds, low humidity levels, and dry ground conditions. The company notes that even neighborhoods with underground lines may experience outages depending on how they connect to the broader grid.
Since starting its Wildfire Mitigation program in 2020—aimed at reducing wildfire risks—the company reports it replaced over 8,300 distribution poles this year alone while inspecting nearly 19,000 poles and more than 2,800 miles of transmission lines. Other improvements include completing hundreds of priority repairs on transmission equipment and installing new substation protection relays during 2024.
According to Xcel Energy: “We make energy work better for customers…delivering better service and providing more reliable…and sustainable energy.” The utility serves millions across eight states from its headquarters in Minneapolis.
