DENVER — Xcel Energy is alerting residents of critical fire weather conditions set to occur on Monday as a cold front progresses into Colorado’s Front Range, leading temperatures to hover around 60 degrees.
Initially, the energy company contemplated shutting off power for safety precaution to customers in Adams, Boulder, Jefferson, and eastern Denver counties. However, it has since announced that it does not anticipate implementing any public safety power shutoffs, thanks to updated forecasts reflecting reduced wind speeds.
A Denver7 Weather Action Day is declared for Monday, indicating heightened fire dangers and strong winds across the Denver metro area. The National Weather Service warns that breezy conditions will intensify late Sunday night into early Monday, especially in higher terrains and plains. The foothills may witness gusts reaching up to 75 mph between 9 a.m. and noon, while mountain peaks above 10,500 ft could experience gusts as high as 80 mph.
In the Eastern Plains, widespread wind gusts are expected to hit 45 to 55 mph, with isolated incidences reaching up to 60 mph. Given these conditions, Xcel Energy is urging residents to prepare emergency kits. Essential items should include a battery-powered radio, flashlights, batteries, backup phone chargers, a non-electric phone, a non-electric alarm clock, and other necessary supplies.
While light snowfall is possible on Monday north of I-70, the plains can expect to remain predominantly dry and cooler, with highs returning to the 60s. On Tuesday and Wednesday, a respite with pleasant fall weather is anticipated before another drop in temperatures and a chance of rain arrives on Thursday.
With these preparations and forecasts, hope remains for a safe transition into the upcoming weather changes.