When Heavy Snow Is in the Forecast

Person Snow Blowing

When heavy snow is in the forecast, we encourage members of the community to prepare and stay safe, by:

  • Staying up to date on the latest weather forecasts from authoritative sources like the National Weather Service - Boulder.
  • Avoiding travel if possible.
  • Take your time and give snow plows a wide berth, if you must travel.
  • Treating snow-covered traffic signals as red and proceeding with caution, and watching for snow-covered stop signs.
  • Checking in on neighbors.
  • Ensuring sidewalks are cleared within 24 hours of the end of the storm.
  • Signing up to receive local emergency alerts to your cell phone at the Smart911 website.

If you need to report an electrical outage to Xcel Energy, you may do so in the following ways:

  • Xcel Energy mobile app is available on iOS and Android.
  • Online on the Xcel Energy website.
  • Text 'OUT' to 98936 to report an outage, or text STAT to the same number to check the status of a power outage.
  • Call 800-895-1999 and follow the prompts - the automated phone reporting system lets customers report outages in less than 60 seconds. Once the cause of the problem is identified, the system or an Xcel Energy representative will provide customers with an estimated restoration time.

Other ways customers can prepare, and stay safe:

  • Keep ice and snow off your natural gas meter and external appliance vents to avoid the dangerous buildup of natural gas. Gently remove any accumulated snow or ice by hand and make sure to maintain a clear path to the gas meter so it's accessible for service or emergencies.
  • Stay away from downed power lines. Always assume an electric line, even one that is on or near the ground, is energized and therefore dangerous. Never, under any circumstance, touch or move a downed power line. If you come across a downed power line, leave the area and report it immediately by calling 800-895-1999.