Xcel Energy said it is working closely with the Amarillo Area Office of Emergency Management and local first responders to safely restore power as fire crews fight to extinguish the Stinky Fire northwest of Amarillo.
The utility emphasized that this is an ongoing event, so more outages are possible for customers in the area as fire activity continues. Customers can visit the Outage Map to see estimated restoration times as they become available as crews continue their work.
Xcel said customers experiencing outages should check for damage to their mast or customer meter pole, which is the electric service connection to their home or business. If the mast or customer meter pole is damaged and needs to be replaced, an Electrical Inspection Certificate (EIC) is required before service can be restored. View requirements and obtain an Electrical Inspection Certificate on this online form, and see the Outage Checklist for more information.
“For safety, Xcel Energy asks everyone to stay away from downed or sagging power lines. Always assume an electric line, even one on the ground, is energized and dangerous,” Xcel Energy said. “Never touch or move a downed power line. Instead, leave the area and report it immediately by calling 1-800-895-1999.”
Monday afternoon, in conjunction with emergency managers, Xcel Energy shut off power to three areas — Tascosa Hills, Bishop Hills and Bishop Estates — as the fire spread and posed an active threat to the community. Power was later restored to Tascosa Hills and Bishop Hills that night. A portion of Bishop Estates was also re-energized, Xcel said, while most customers remained without power due to the fire.
How to report an outage or get updates
Customers can help Xcel Energy get a jump on power restoration by reporting outages. To report an outage:
“Xcel Energy knows losing power is difficult, and the company thanks customers for their patience and support of its crews,” the company said. “We are grateful to our local first responders and firefighters for their work to keep our communities safe.”
This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Xcel Energy crews working to restore power to impacted wildfire area
Reporting by Kristina Wood, Amarillo Globe-News / Amarillo Globe-News
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