Xcel Energy May Shut Off Power Due to Wildfire Risk

LUBBOCK, TX — Xcel Energy announced that the company may turn off power for thousands of customers in eastern New Mexico and the Texas South Plains due to extreme weather and high wildfire risks on March 3 and 4.

According to an update from Xcel, power may be turned off for about 2,000 customers in eastern New Mexico starting at 1 p.m. CST (noon MT) on March 3. On March 4, around 12,000 customers in the Texas South Plains could also lose power, starting at 10 a.m. CST. The number of customers affected and the timing could change as the weather develops.

High winds are expected, which could delay power restoration for hours or even days. Xcel Energy is currently reaching out to customers who may be impacted. Customers can check the power outage map online to see if they might be affected by these power shutoffs. The map will be updated regularly with new information.

Why Power May Be Shut Off

Xcel Energy is considering turning off power due to high winds, dry conditions, and the risk of wildfires in the area. This is being done to keep customers safe and reduce the chance of fires starting.

Once the weather improves, crews will work to restore power as quickly as possible, but it could take longer than usual due to the severe conditions.

Enhanced Safety Settings on Powerlines

Starting March 2, Xcel Energy will activate Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS). This technology automatically shuts off power if something, like a tree branch, touches a power line. If an outage happens, it may take longer to restore power because crews will need to inspect the lines first.

Both PSPS and EPSS are only used when wildfire risk is high due to factors like wind, humidity, and dry conditions.

How to Prepare

Xcel Energy is contacting affected customers and will continue providing updates. Customers should make sure their account information is up to date to get the latest alerts. Those who rely on medical equipment should make backup plans in case of an outage.

Customers can visit Xcel Energy's website for more details and to check the outage map.