The Front Range of Colorado is facing a heightened risk of wildfires Wednesday due to unseasonably warm and dry conditions. Strong winds, with gusts potentially reaching 75 mph along the foothills, are expected to exacerbate the situation. In response, Xcel Energy is preparing for potential Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) affecting approximately 52,000 customers in Boulder, Clear Creek, Jefferson, Larimer, and Weld counties.
Xcel Energy moved up the potential start time for these outages to 10 a.m. Wednesday, earlier than the previously stated 12 p.m. The utility stated the preemptive power cuts are intended to prevent downed power lines from igniting fires. Andrew Holder, Xcel’s Director of Community Relations, said the company is “likely” to implement the PSPS, but will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates.
This would be the second time Xcel Energy has proactively de-energized power lines in Colorado due to wildfire risk. The first instance occurred in April of 2024, impacting more than 55,000 customers. According to Holder, a key lesson learned from that event was the importance of clear and timely communication with customers.
Meteorologist Russel Danielson with the National Weather Service in Boulder noted the extreme dryness of fuels, stating, “Since it has been so warm and dry, there’s not that greenup or anything… All the fuels are just so dry.” Denver tied a record on Monday, reaching 68 degrees – the warmest December 15th since 1921, and marking the seventh consecutive day with temperatures at or above 60 degrees.
While a cold front is expected to arrive Thursday, bringing a chance of snow to the mountains – potentially two to five inches in the Front Range and Western Slope – officials are urging residents to remain vigilant through Wednesday. The snow and increased humidity are expected to temporarily lower fire danger.
Did You Know? Denver tied a century-old heat record on December 15th, reaching 68 degrees, the warmest the city has been on that date since 1921.
Expert Insight: Proactive power shutoffs represent a difficult trade-off for utilities. While disruptive to customers, they are increasingly viewed as a necessary measure to mitigate the catastrophic risk of wildfire ignition in areas with aging infrastructure and increasingly volatile weather patterns. The emphasis on improved communication reflects a growing understanding of the need for public trust and cooperation during these events.
Xcel Energy recommends customers prepare for potential outages by fully charging devices and medical equipment, gathering backup light sources and first aid kits, and setting refrigerators and freezers to their coldest settings. They also advise practicing how to open garages manually and having a battery-powered radio available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Public Safety Power Shutoff?
A Public Safety Power Shutoff is when Xcel Energy turns off power to targeted areas based on their wildfire risk.
When are the winds expected to ease?
Xcel Energy stated the winds should ease up around 6 p.m. Wednesday.
How long could a power outage last?
The length of any power outage will depend on how long the Front Range remains under a red flag or critical fire warning, and whether wind damage occurs to power lines. Restoration could take a couple of hours or up to two days.
As conditions evolve, will you be prepared for a potential power outage?
