Xcel Energy Warns of Critical Fire Weather and Potential Power Outages in Colorado
DENVER – Xcel Energy is warning residents of critical fire weather and potential power outages on Monday as a cold front moves into Colorado’s Front Range, dropping temperatures to around 60 degrees.
The utility company is currently evaluating whether to proactively turn off power for customers in Adams, Boulder, Jefferson, and eastern Denver counties on Monday. Xcel Energy emphasized that a public safety power shutoff is not a decision taken lightly and is only used when other methods are insufficient to prevent wildfires.
Customers who rely on medical equipment are urged to prepare for possible extended outages and ensure they have necessary backups in place.
Weather Alerts and Conditions
A Denver7 Weather Action Day is in effect for Monday due to high winds and elevated fire danger across the entire Denver metro area. Very windy conditions are expected to develop late Sunday night into Monday morning, impacting Colorado’s higher terrain and plains.
The National Weather Service predicts the foothills may experience brief wind gusts up to 75 mph between 9 a.m. and noon. Mountain peaks above 10,500 feet could face gusts up to 80 mph through midday, while the Eastern Plains will see widespread gusts of 45-55 mph, with isolated gusts reaching 60 mph. A fire weather watch remains in effect.
Emergency Preparedness Recommendations
Xcel Energy encourages all customers to prepare an emergency kit at home, which should include:
- Battery-powered radio
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- Backup phone chargers
- A phone that does not require electricity
- Non-electric alarm clock
Additional Weather Information
Light mountain snow is possible on Monday north of Interstate 70, while the plains will remain mostly dry and cooler with highs in the 60s. Tuesday and Wednesday are expected to bring pleasant fall weather before another temperature drop and a chance of rain arrive on Thursday.
