25K Still Without Power Thursday, With Shutoffs Expected for 67K More Friday Amid Continued High Winds

Residents across Colorado's Front Range are reeling from relentless high winds that have left thousands in the dark.

 

Xcel Energy officials warn that the chaos isn't over yet.

 

On Thursday, around 25K customers remained without electricity following Wednesday's brutal gusts and preventive shutoffs.

 

Frustration is mounting as families huddle in cold homes, scrambling for ways to charge devices and stay warm.

 

Looking ahead, another wave of shutoffs looms for Friday, potentially affecting 67K more households in key areas like Boulder and Jefferson counties.

 

These measures aim to curb wildfire risks amid dry, whipping winds that could spark disaster.

 

Local meteorologists predict gusts soaring to 105 mph in the foothills, creating hazardous conditions for drivers and high-profile vehicles.

 

This shift marks a narrower but still fierce storm compared to earlier blasts, focusing intensity on mountainous zones.

 

Schools in Boulder County have shuttered doors again, leaving parents to juggle childcare amid the uncertainty.

 

Transportation takes a hit too, with disruptions on light rail lines forcing commuters onto shuttle buses.

 

Emergency teams have stepped up, opening shelters in Lakewood and Black Hawk where folks can find refuge, food, and even pet-friendly spots.

 

Red Cross volunteers are on the ground, offering mental health support to those feeling the emotional toll.

 

Relief efforts highlight community resilience, with resource centers popping up in libraries for charging and snacks.

 

Xcel crews are racing against time, inspecting hundreds of miles of lines to restore service safely.

 

Some may endure outages stretching days, prompting questions about insurance claims for spoiled goods or property damage.

 

Experts advise weighing deductibles before filing, as minor losses might not justify the hassle.

 

Air travel feels the ripple, with delays stacking up at Denver's airport.

 

As red flag warnings blanket the region, officials urge caution to avoid igniting fast-spreading fires.

 

This ongoing saga underscores the growing challenges of extreme weather in our state.