Xcel Energy Prepares for High Wildfire Risk in Colorado, Enhanced Safety Measures Activated

DENVER — Xcel Energy is preparing for strong winds and elevated wildfire risk across Colorado, particularly starting Tuesday, February 17, 2026. While a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) is not currently expected, the company is activating Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS) across eastern Colorado to mitigate potential hazards.

Wildfire Risk and Weather Conditions

Historically low snowpack combined with unseasonably warm and dry conditions have created very dry vegetation, increasing the potential for large, fast-spreading wildfires . Strong winds are expected to peak Tuesday and continue through Thursday, heightening the risk of damage to power lines and potential outages .

Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS)

Xcel Energy will activate EPSS across eastern Colorado over the next 48-72 hours. These settings increase the sensitivity of power lines, automatically shutting off power if an object, such as a tree branch, makes contact with a line . It’s essential to note that outages occurring under EPSS are considered unplanned and may result in longer restoration times, as crews must visually inspect the lines before restoring power .

PSPS Not Currently Planned

According to Xcel Energy, a PSPS is not anticipated at this time, following consultation with the National Weather Service. The National Weather Service indicated that current conditions do not meet the criteria for a proactive de-energization . However, the company warns that wind-driven outages remain possible and operational adjustments may be made as conditions evolve .

Past PSPS Events and Customer Impact

Previous fire safety blackouts, implemented after the Marshall Fire, have impacted hundreds of thousands of customers on Colorado’s Front Range . Some businesses have experienced significant financial losses due to prolonged outages. For example, Beleza Coffee Bar in Boulder reported losing $15,000 after a 61-hour outage in December .

Preparing for Potential Outages

Xcel Energy recommends customers seize the following steps to prepare for potential power outages:

• Set refrigerators and freezers to their coldest settings.
• Turn off or unplug electrical appliances to prevent surges.
• Purchase portable charger banks and batteries.
• Designate a safe outdoor space for generators, grills, and stoves.
• Practice opening garage doors manually.

Xcel Energy’s Wildfire Mitigation Efforts

Xcel Energy has been actively working to mitigate wildfire risks through several initiatives, including undergrounding power lines, providing battery energy storage rebates, and enhancing reporting and access to wildfire detection cameras . The company also committed to community outreach and engagement regarding vegetation management and risk assessment .

In September 2025, Xcel Energy agreed to pay approximately $640 million to resolve claims related to the 2021 Colorado wildfire, where its power lines were determined to be a contributing factor .