Xcel considers power shutoff in Colorado due to high winds

As reported by 9News, some Coloradans could be without power today as Xcel Energy considers shutting down power to mitigate fire risk and damages from high winds this weekend.

Specifically, the counties of Boulder, Gilpin and Jefferson could see de-energized lines as a proactive measure for safety reasons. The Denver metro could see winds up to 70 mph this weekend with the foothills seeing up to 100 mph gusts.

Red Flag Warnings have been issues across the state. Xcel did comment on social media saying “turning off customers’ power is not something we take lightly, but intended to decrease the risk of wildfire” and “if any proactive de-energization is necessary, we will attempt to contact affected customers directly.”

Hurricane force winds likely in Colorado this weekend