Xcel Energy Power Outage Affects Over 3,000 Customers in Colorado
On May 16, 2026, Xcel Energy reported a significant power outage affecting more than 3,000 customers from Glenwood Springs to Silt, Colorado. The outage, which began in the mid-afternoon, was concentrated around New Castle. Residents, including Pamela Whittington, reported hearing a 'big boom' and seeing a 'big flash' around 3 p.m., followed by smoke and a small fire near a bike path. Neighbors used fire extinguishers to control the fire before the local fire department arrived. Xcel Energy indicated that the outage was likely caused by an incident involving a transmission line, which required inspection before power could be restored. Most customers had their power back by 8:20 p.m. Xcel Energy did not immediately respond to requests for further information. 
