Fri Dec 19 16:10:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text:
Headline: Nearly 100,000 Coloradans Without Power as Utilities Implement Planned Outages Amid Extreme Fire Weather
Denver, CO – Close to 100,000 Colorado residents found themselves without electricity Friday morning as utility companies enacted planned power shutoffs and contended with unplanned outages caused by fierce winds. Xcel Energy deliberately cut power to 69,000 homes and businesses in Boulder, Clear Creek, Gilpin, Jefferson, Larimer, and Weld counties as a safety precaution against wildfires, while the electric cooperative CORE reported thousands more without power.
As of 8:20 AM, Xcel Energy’s outage map showed 89,271 customers affected, and CORE reported 8,693. The outages are a result of a “particularly dangerous situation red flag warning” issued by the National Weather Service, citing exceptionally high winds, potentially reaching 100 mph in the foothills west of Denver, and dangerously low humidity levels creating prime conditions for rapid fire spread.
Xcel Energy warned that restoring power could take “up to several days” as crews must inspect and repair damaged power lines before safely re-energizing them. The utility emphasized that the fire weather conditions on Friday mirrored or surpassed those experienced on Wednesday when wind gusts exceeded 100 mph.
Even homes with underground power lines may be affected, as their power is tied to the larger grid. Xcel Energy is collaborating with the American Red Cross and local emergency managers to establish resource centers offering phone charging and emergency supplies for those impacted. Utility employees are present at these centers providing support and information.
Xcel reported that over 90% of customers who experienced planned outages on Wednesday have had their power restored.
First Piper 