AMARILLO, Texas (XCEL ENERGY) – Xcel Energy is preparing for critical wildfire risks early this week in the northern Texas Panhandle and eastern New Mexico and is notifying customers that a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) may be necessary on Tuesday, Feb. 17, beginning around 9 a.m. CT.
Unseasonably warm, dry weather combined with high winds, low humidity and very dry vegetation has created elevated wildfire risk across the region, especially in areas that have not seen substantial precipitation in recent days.
Strong winds may also damage power lines and cause additional unplanned outages. It’s important to note that high winds can also trigger outages. Xcel Energy is staging crews and equipment to respond quickly and restore service as soon as conditions allow…