Xcel Energy is preparing for severe weather in Colorado, with strong winds and an increased risk of wildfires expected to begin on Tuesday, February 17. The company cites historically low snowfall, unusually warm and dry conditions, and very dry vegetation as factors that could contribute to large and fast-moving wildfires.
The risk of wildfires is anticipated to rise, with high winds increasing the chance of damage to power lines and potential power outages. These weather conditions are expected to peak on Tuesday and continue through Thursday.
Xcel Energy plans to activate Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS) in eastern Colorado over the next 48-72 hours as a measure to reduce wildfire risk. When EPSS is activated, power lines become more sensitive and can immediately stop the flow of electricity if a problem is detected, such as a tree branch or other object contacting the line. According to Xcel Energy, “These adjustments do not mean the company has proactively shut off a customer’s electricity. If there is an outage while these settings are active, it is the result of an issue on the power line. Electricity will remain off until our crews can visually inspect the power lines to ensure it is safe to re-energize them. This may mean that if a power outage occurs, it could last longer.”
Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), which involve cutting electricity to specific areas when wildfire risks are extremely high and other methods like EPSS are insufficient, are not currently being considered. The company stated, “Currently, a PSPS is not being considered because we believe it is unlikely that weather conditions will meet PSPS criteria.” However, customers may still experience outages due to strong winds.
Xcel Energy uses weather forecasts and additional data sources to determine how best to protect public safety. Key factors include strong winds, low relative humidity, and dry ground conditions. Risk models are updated regularly so operations can be adjusted accordingly. The company’s forecast aligns with the National Weather Service’s Fire Weather Watch for parts of the region through Tuesday.
Customers are encouraged by Xcel Energy to prepare for possible wildfires and power outages now by reviewing their contact information in My Account and updating it if necessary. Those who rely on medical equipment powered by electricity should consider enrolling in Xcel Energy’s “Safe for Colorado” program for additional support if they qualify medically.
The company reminded customers using medical equipment dependent on electric service: “Please take steps now to prepare a backup power supply in case outages occur.” Xcel Energy will contact qualifying medical customers directly about the severe weather forecasted and potential impacts.
To stay informed during outages, customers should keep their account information current in My Account and check Xcel Energy’s statewide outage map for updates on affected customers and estimated restoration times.
Xcel Energy recommends preparing an emergency kit with essential items that do not require electricity—such as battery-powered radios, flashlights, extra batteries, backup phone chargers, bottled water, non-perishable food items, manual can openers, first aid kits, extension cords for partial outages, manufacturer instructions for manually opening electric doors like garage doors, and key phone numbers including (800) 895-1999 for residential or (800) 481-4700 for business customers.
The company continues investing in its electrical systems across Colorado in order to reduce wildfire risks and limit both the scale and duration of potential outages.
Customers can report outages via several methods: through Xcel Energy’s mobile app available from Apple App Store or Google Play; online at xcelenergy.com/out; by texting OUT or STAT to 98936; or by calling 1-800-895-1999.
Xcel Energy serves millions of customers across eight states from its headquarters in Minneapolis. The company focuses on providing reliable energy while leading efforts toward cleaner energy solutions at affordable rates.
For more information about restoration processes or tips on preparing for outages visit xcelenergy.com/out.
