Home / Weather / Xcel Energy Cuts Power in Southern CO Due to Wildfire Risk
Xcel Energy Cuts Power in Southern CO Due to Wildfire Risk
22 Apr
Summary
- Xcel Energy is implementing a power shutoff for 7,100 customers.
- The shutoff is to mitigate wildfire risks due to high winds.
- Power restoration may extend into the next day for some areas.
Xcel Energy announced plans for a Public Safety Power Shutoff affecting roughly 7,100 customers in southern Colorado, beginning around noon on Wednesday, April 22. This measure is designed to reduce wildfire risks exacerbated by forecasted strong winds, low humidity, and dry conditions.
The San Luis Valley, specifically Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, and Rio Grande counties, faces a particularly dangerous fire situation, underscored by a National Weather Service Red Flag Warning. Xcel Energy confirmed these shutoff plans on Monday after initially stating they were possible.
The energy company will continuously monitor weather conditions. Power lines will only be de-energized if extreme weather materializes. Conditions are anticipated to improve by 7 p.m. on Wednesday.
Restoration work will commence once it is safe for crews to operate. This process is expected to take several hours, with power possibly not fully restored to all affected areas until Thursday, April 23. Xcel Energy advises customers to prepare in advance, especially those relying on electricity for medical equipment.
Additionally, enhanced powerline safety settings will be deployed statewide to increase sensitivity and prevent electrical flow upon contact, further mitigating wildfire hazards. Xcel Energy acknowledges the disruption but emphasizes its commitment to balancing public safety and wildfire risk management.
