Xcel Energy Prepares for Potential Power Outages Due to High Winds

Denver, Colorado – Xcel Energy is preparing for potential power outages in the Denver metropolitan area and Larimer County on Monday due to critical fire weather and high winds. The utility company made an announcement on Sunday evening regarding the possibility of power disruptions.

Although earlier discussions considered proactive power shutoffs to prevent wildfires, Xcel officials later decided against them after updated forecasts showed lower wind speeds. “Temporarily shutting off power…is not a step taken lightly and is only used when other methods are not enough to prevent wildfires,” said an Xcel spokesperson.

A red flag warning will be in effect Monday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. for multiple counties, including Jefferson, Douglas, Boulder, and Denver. Forecasters predict winds of up to 50 mph and relative humidity as low as 15%, leading to conditions favorable for rapid fire spread.

Xcel Energy has activated Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings across northern Colorado. These settings allow power lines to shut off automatically if they sense contact with vegetation or equipment faults, which helps to prevent wildfire ignition. However, they can also extend the duration of outages as crews conduct visual inspections.

The utility company has crews on standby to patrol service areas and restore power as quickly as possible. Xcel urges customers in affected areas to prepare for possible outages by assembling emergency kits and updating their communication preferences on the company’s website.

Residents are also advised to avoid outdoor burning and monitor official updates for any changes in forecasts or outage areas. This developing situation may see updates throughout the day as weather conditions change.