Strong Winds Could Trigger Public Safety Power Shutoff Due To Fire Threat In Colorado

Powerful winds are forecast across Colorado, prompting officials to warn of a potential Public Safety Power Shutoff that could occur Wednesday.

The combination of strong winds and low levels of humidity could potentially increase the threat of wildfires across the region.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued High Wind Warnings and Red Flag Warnings in several cities, including Denver, Colorado Springs and Pueblo.

Wind gusts are expected to reach up to 60 mph or higher in some areas, while relative humidity levels will be at 20-30%, according to the FOX Forecast Center. (RELATED: La Niña Winter Setting Up Coast-To-Coast Storm Packed With Hurricane-Force Winds)

Electric companies around the area have announced that they might have to cut the power off temporarily to prevent wildfires, potentially affecting select areas within the Denver Metro region.

State officials are strongly urging residents to avoid all burning outdoors and any activities that could generate sparks to minimize wildfire risk.

Per a post on social media from the Boulder Office of Disaster Management, Xcel Energy has notified Boulder County of the possible Public Safety Power Shutoff, which could have impacts on a huge swath of Boulder County.

Xcel Energy has notified Boulder County of a potential Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) due to increased fire danger that could impact a large portion of Boulder County beginning on Wednesday, December 17th at noon.

Prepare now:⁰
Charge phones, medical devices, and backup… pic.twitter.com/kOpOfuI0GZ

— Boulder Office of Disaster Management (@BoulderOEM) December 15, 2025

They are strongly advising residents in potentially affected areas to prepare by fully charging cell phones, medical devices and portable backup batteries, while also having a plan when it comes to food, water, medication and supplies for pets.

This is not the first time that Colorado has faced a high-wind event. Hurricane-force winds struck Boulder County in Dec. 2021, contributing to a wildfire triggered by a downed power line.

The Marshall fire ultimately destroyed more than 1,000 homes, claiming the lives of two residents and resulting in approximately $2 billion in insured losses.