Key Takeaways
- Over 90,000 Xcel Energy customers were affected by power outages due to high winds and precautionary shutdowns in the Front Range and Eastern Plains.
- A series of overnight fires in Yuma County led to evacuations, but no injuries or damage were reported.
- The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning with forecast wind gusts up to 80 mph.
- Several school districts, including Boulder Valley School District, cancelled classes due to the high winds and power outages.
- Xcel Energy’s public safety shutoffs were part of the company’s updated Wildfire Mitigation Plan to reduce the risk of sparking a major fire.
Introduction to the High Wind Warning
The National Weather Service maintained a high wind warning for much of the Front Range and plains, with forecast wind gusts up to 80 mph expected to continue until at least 11 a.m. on Thursday. The strong winds caused significant disruptions, including power outages, flight delays, and school cancellations. The high wind warning was issued to alert residents of the potential dangers of the strong winds, which could cause downed power lines, property damage, and other hazards.
Power Outages and Precautionary Shutdowns
Over 90,000 Xcel Energy customers were affected by power outages due to the high winds and precautionary shutdowns. The outages were caused by a combination of wind damage and precautionary shutdowns, which were implemented to reduce the risk of sparking a major fire. Xcel Energy’s public safety shutoffs were part of the company’s updated Wildfire Mitigation Plan, which is meant to reduce the odds that the utility’s equipment will spark a major fire. The plan requires Xcel to dramatically improve its coordination with state and local authorities when it decides to cut power.
Impact on Daily Life
The high winds and power outages had a significant impact on daily life, with many residents affected by the disruptions. Martha Lunsky, who runs the front desk at the Chautauqua Lodges in Boulder, reported that they lost power around 11 a.m. on Wednesday, and the winds got significantly worse after that. She said that they had been distributing flashlights and extra blankets to guests, and that all the current guests had been understanding. In Golden, resident Ron Groothedde lost power during a work Zoom call and had to go to a different area to grocery shop.
School Cancellations and Flight Delays
The high winds also caused disruptions to school schedules, with several school districts cancelling classes due to the high winds and power outages. Boulder Valley School District cancelled all classes on Thursday, and districts in Clear Creek and Gilpin Counties also cancelled classes for the day. Some Jeffco schools were also closed due to the wind, loss of power, or both. Additionally, Denver International Airport reported 49 flight delays and nine cancellations at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday.
Overnight Fires and Evacuations
A series of overnight fires in Yuma County led to evacuations, but no injuries or damage were reported. The fires were a cause for concern, and residents were warned to be cautious due to the high winds and dry conditions. The fires were another reminder of the potential dangers of the high winds, which could cause sparks and ignite fires.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
Though winds may subside on Thursday afternoon, officials warned that they could be back on Thursday night and Friday, along with more power shutdowns. Residents were advised to be prepared for further disruptions and to take necessary precautions to stay safe. Xcel Energy’s public safety shutoffs were a precautionary measure to reduce the risk of sparking a major fire, and residents were encouraged to be understanding and cooperative during the disruptions. As the holiday break approached, residents were hoped that the high winds would subside, and life could return to normal.
