Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Xcel Energy Shuts Off Power for 50,000 Amid High Winds

12/20/2025

28 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Xcel Energy has implemented Public Safety Power Shutoffs in Colorado due to extreme winds, affecting about 50,000 customers.
As of midday, more than 97,000 customers remained without power, with outages expanding as weather conditions evolve.
The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for winds up to 80 mph, signaling potential outages as conditions return later in the week.

History

Historical Context

In October 2019, California's Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) initiated Public Safety Power Shutoffs, affecting approximately 800,000 customers, to prevent wildfires amid extreme weather conditions. This proactive measure followed devastating fires in 2017 and 2018, which resulted in over 95 deaths. The ongoing risks highlight the urgent need for utility companies to adapt to climate change and enhance disaster risk management.

1 of 2

Story summary

Xcel Energy has implemented Public Safety Power Shutoffs in Colorado due to extreme winds, affecting about 50,000 customers.
As of midday, more than 97,000 customers remained without power, with outages expanding as weather conditions evolve.
The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for winds up to 80 mph, signaling potential outages as conditions return later in the week.

1 / 2