Xcel Updates Power Outage Impact to 52,000 Customers in Windy, Dry Colorado
Xcel Energy has significantly reduced the estimated number of customers facing potential power outages due to high winds in Colorado. Initially, the utility predicted that as many as 530,000 customers might be affected during a preemptive power shutoff. However, by Tuesday afternoon, this figure was revised to 52,000 customers.
Details of the Power Outage Impact
The precautionary power outages are expected to begin around 10 a.m. on Wednesday. The most affected areas include the foothills of Jefferson, Boulder, Clear Creek, Larimer, and Weld counties. The decision to reduce the number of impacted customers is based on advanced weather modeling and infrastructure improvements, according to Xcel officials.
Purpose of Power Shutoffs
Public safety power shutoffs (PSPS) are implemented to minimize wildfire risks during extreme weather conditions. High winds, warm temperatures, and low humidity create an environment conducive to wildfires, prompting precautionary measures from utility companies. Xcel Energy emphasized that they take this step with caution, considering various factors including:
- Weather conditions
- Wind speeds
- Relative humidity
- Fuel moisture
- Temperature
- Critical customers and infrastructure
Forecast for Wednesday
Forecasters from the National Weather Service predict strong winds across the Front Range. Wind gusts may reach between 60 and 90 mph, particularly in wind-prone areas. Specific expected gusts include:
- 80 mph in Boulder
- 75 mph in Golden
- 50 mph in Denver
- 45 mph in Castle Rock
- 55 mph in Fort Collins
- 65 mph in Colorado Springs
Current Weather Conditions
The region has experienced a streak of warm and dry weather. Notably, Denver recently matched a historical high temperature record set in 1921. Current forecasts suggest continued warm temperatures, risking the possibility of breaking additional records.
Previous Experience with Power Outages
If Xcel Energy goes ahead with these preemptive shutoffs, it will mark the second such event in Colorado. In April 2024, the utility cut power to approximately 55,000 customers, with another 250,000 losing power due to high winds.
Restoration Timeline
Once winds subside, Xcel Energy officials plan to restore power as quickly as safety allows. Restoration times may vary, ranging from hours to days, depending on the specific area impacted. Crews will ensure safety along the power lines before re-energizing them.
Even if preemptive shutoffs do not occur, Xcel has indicated they will still utilize “enhanced powerline safety settings.” This means that while power lines will remain active, they will automatically shut off if any obstructions are detected, such as falling branches.
How Customers Can Stay Informed
Xcel customers can track outages and submit reports through their online accounts. Additionally, they can text “OUT” to 98936 to report an outage or “STAT” to check the status of existing outages.
There remains a slight possibility of rain or snow on Wednesday, but any accumulation is unlikely due to the ongoing warm weather conditions.
