Xcel Energy Announces Temporary Power Shutoffs in New Mexico, Texas Amid Wildfire Risks

AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) – Xcel Energy announced it will temporarily cut power to about 140 customers in eastern New Mexico starting Monday, March 3, to mitigate wildfire risks, with potential outages continuing into Tuesday morning for some Texas South Plains customers.

Elevated fire danger prompted the Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) decision, as extremely high wind speeds and low humidity create ideal conditions for wildfires. According to Xcel, the power outages are expected to commence around noon Mountain Time.

“Implementing a targeted Public Safety Power Shutoff is a step we take seriously as it’s a last resort to protect our customers and communities,” said Adrian J. Rodriguez, president of Xcel Energy – Texas, New Mexico. The number of affected customers may vary based on evolving weather conditions.

Conditions affecting the regions in question include sustained winds over 25 mph, gusting up to 55 mph, and extremely low humidity levels. A red flag warning has been issued, indicating a high risk of fire spread due to upcoming weather forecasts.

Power may also be cut for areas in Texas, including parts of Lubbock, Wolfforth, Lorenzo, and Levelland beginning Tuesday morning, March 4. Xcel is actively communicating with customers, notifying those who may be impacted and encouraging them to prepare for power outages.

“The safety of our customers and communities is our top priority,” Rodriguez said. “We are taking proactive measures to mitigate wildfire risks and will maintain close communication with our public safety partners and customers to ensure everyone stays informed as conditions evolve.”

To assist customers, Xcel Energy advises maintaining charged devices and preparing outage kits with essential items such as flashlights, bottled water, and non-perishable food. It also urges customers relying on medical equipment to prepare backup power supplies and keep their account information updated through the Xcel Energy website.

Safeguards in place include Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings which allow power lines to stop energy flow if hazards are detected. If outages occur, restoration efforts will commence only after winds and fire risks diminish, requiring crews to inspect power lines to ensure safety before re-energizing.

Updated information regarding the PSPS and current outages can be found on Xcel’s website and through its outage map.

As wildfires continue to threaten the region, the Texas A&M Forest Service has elevated its Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 3 of 5, responding to the ongoing hot, dry conditions.

Following last year’s devastating wildfires exacerbated by decayed equipment, Xcel Energy is undertaking efforts to strengthen its grid system to enhance resilience against extreme weather conditions. The company recently submitted a System Resiliency Plan aimed at bolstering services across Texas.