"Xcel Energy Implements Preemptive Power Cuts for 55K Customers in Colorado Amid High Wind and Fire Risk"

Xcel will shut off power to 55,000 Colorado customers across six counties for more than 24 hours due to dangerous wind conditions and wildfire risks, with outages starting around 3 p.m. Saturday and continuing through noon Sunday. The company is taking this action to prevent its electric system from becoming the source of a wildfire ignition. Customers relying on electrical medical equipment should prepare for extended outages, and first responder agencies advise oxygen-dependent individuals to make necessary arrangements. Additionally, high winds may cause additional outages, and residents are urged to take precautions for heating and cooking during the outage.