Image Source: FOX31 Denver
The city of Fort Collins and surrounding areas are bracing for potential power outages as Xcel Energy prepares for a significant disruption due to high winds forecasted for December 17, 2025. This incoming weather event has prompted Xcel to notify approximately 50,000 customers that they might experience preemptive power shutdowns starting at 10 a.m.
Forecast and Warnings for December 17
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Boulder has issued a high wind warning for Northern Colorado, specifically highlighting the risk associated with downsloping winds. Central to the predictions are winds expected to gust between 30 to 50 mph, with peak gusts soaring up to 80 mph throughout the Fort Collins area.
Local authorities are urging residents to stay indoors during the height of the storm, which is anticipated to create hazardous conditions, including:
- Widespread power outages
- Downed trees and power lines
- Difficult travel, particularly for high-profile vehicles
Impact on Schools
In response to the weather conditions, numerous schools within the affected regions are closing for December 17. The Poudre School District will cancel classes at several elementary and middle schools, impacting students in:
- Bethke Elementary
- Timnath Elementary
- Livermore Elementary
Windsor’s Weld RE-4 district will also adopt an altered schedule, where elementary schools are closed while middle and high schools will have earlier dismissals.
Preventive Shutoffs by Xcel Energy
Xcel Energy’s decision to cut power proactively stems from the increased risk of damage to infrastructure. The company emphasizes that while the planned shutoff affects 50,000 customers in regions including:
- Boulder
- Clear Creek
- Jefferson
- Larimer
- Weld counties
This precautionary measure is designed to prevent widespread outages that could result from unplanned incidents brought on by the severe weather. According to Xcel, restoring power could take hours or even days, as crews must assess and repair any issues before reenergizing lines.
What Residents Can Do
Residents are advised to prepare for possible outages by ensuring they have sufficient supplies of food, water, and necessary medications. The NWS recommends securing loose objects around homes and avoiding outdoor burning or activities that might lead to fire ignition.
Alternative Services and Expectations
Other energy providers in the area, such as municipal utilities serving Fort Collins and Loveland, have indicated that they do not plan to implement preemptive outages due to their infrastructure, which is largely underground. They are, however, monitoring conditions closely and ready to respond to any unexpected outages.
Staying Informed
Residents can access information about power outages on Xcel Energy’s outage map and are encouraged to stay tuned for updates as the weather situation develops. Community engagement via local updates is crucial as this impactful weather event unfolds.
Conclusion
As winds pick up and schools close, the community prepares for an eventful day on December 17, 2025. Those affected by potential power outages near me should stay vigilant, prioritize safety, and keep abreast of updates from local authorities.
FAQs
Will all schools in Fort Collins close on December 17?
No, select schools in the Poudre School District will be closed, but others will remain open.
How can I prepare for the expected power outages?
Ensure you have enough supplies such as food, water, batteries, and medications on hand.
What should I do if my power goes out?
If your power goes out, report the outage to your service provider and check their outage map for updates.
Are there any safety warnings associated with the high winds?
Yes, the NWS warns of potential fire danger, downed power lines, and hazardous travel conditions.
Is Xcel Energy the only service provider affected by high winds?
No, while Xcel Energy may impose shutoffs, other providers like municipal utilities in Fort Collins do not anticipate planned outages but could face unexpected ones.
