Xcel Energy Warns Colorado Customers of Possible Power Shutoffs Due to Fire Danger

Utility company cites low snowpack, dry conditions, and high fire risk as reasons for potential outages.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Xcel Energy has issued a notice to its Colorado customers, warning them to prepare for potential power shutoffs in the coming weeks and months due to the heightened risk of wildfires. The company cited historically low snowpack, warm and dry weather, and very dry vegetation as contributing factors to the elevated fire danger in the state.

Why it matters

Power outages can have significant impacts on communities, especially for those relying on medical equipment. Xcel's warning allows customers to prepare in advance and take steps to mitigate the effects of any potential shutoffs. The dry conditions also raise concerns about water supply and potential restrictions later in the year.

The details

Xcel Energy shared the notice on the company's X account on Saturday, urging customers to take steps to prepare for wildfires and power outages. The National Weather Service in Boulder warned that the area will experience a "prolonged period of critical fire weather conditions" starting Saturday and lasting into the middle of next week, with extreme fire weather conditions expected on Tuesday. Xcel advised customers who use medical equipment to sign up for the Safe for Colorado program, which provides extra communications during planned and unplanned outages.

  • Xcel Energy issued the warning on Saturday, February 15, 2026.
  • The National Weather Service warned of critical fire weather conditions starting Saturday, February 15, 2026, and lasting through the middle of next week.
  • Extreme fire weather conditions are expected on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Xcel Energy

A major electric and natural gas utility company serving customers in Colorado and several other states.

National Weather Service in Boulder

The local office of the National Weather Service that provides weather forecasts and warnings for the Boulder, Colorado area.

Safe for Colorado

A program offered by Xcel Energy that provides extra communications and support for customers with qualifying medical conditions during power outages.

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What they’re saying

“Historically low snowpack, coupled with unseasonably warm and dry weather and very dry vegetation, could contribute to large, fast-spreading wildfires in Colorado over the coming weeks and months. We encourage you to take steps to prepare for potential wildfires and power outages now.”

— Xcel Energy (Xcel Energy X account)

“Conditions are expected to expand in coverage and intensify over time, with Tuesday likely bringing extreme fire weather conditions to the plains. The period starts Sunday with a Red Flag Warning in effect for the eastern plains from 11 AM to 5 PM. Relative humidity values are expected to drop as low as 11%, combined with gusty southwest winds up to 40 mph. These conditions will create a high risk for rapid fire growth and spread. Avoid any burning or outdoor activities that may cause sparks.”

— NWS Boulder (National Weather Service)

What’s next

Xcel Energy advises customers who use medical equipment to sign up for the Safe for Colorado program to receive extra communications during any potential power outages.

The takeaway

This warning from Xcel Energy and the National Weather Service highlights the growing threat of wildfires and the need for Colorado residents to be prepared for potential power shutoffs and other impacts of the state's ongoing drought and dry conditions. Proactive steps like signing up for emergency notification programs can help mitigate the effects of these outages, especially for vulnerable populations.