Xcel announces new Friday power outage as high winds return

• Roughly 67,000 customers across Boulder, Clear Creek, Gilpin, Jefferson, Larimer and Weld counties could lose power, Xcel said in a statement. Denver, so far, is in the clear.

Threat level: Friday's forecast looks even drier than Wednesday's, raising wildfire risks across the region, per 9News meteorologist Chris Bianchi.

Reality check: Colorado weather is notoriously unpredictable — meaning forecast shifts could change the timing and scope of outages.

• Xcel's online outage map remains the go-to place for updates (so long as it doesn't crash like it did during Wednesday's wind event).

The other side: The shutoffs — which Xcel says are designed to prevent catastrophic blazes like Boulder's 2021 Marshall Fire — have drawn criticism.

• Colorado Republicans have made Xcel's planned outages a political issue. U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert blamed "Democrats' radical environment policies" and accused Xcel of propelling "California style insanity imported by leftists."

Catch up quick: This week's wind gusts —some exceeding 100 mph — not only turned the lights out in homes, schools and businesses, but caused extensive damage and disruptions across the metro.

• Multiple fires burned in Yuma County on Wednesday, including one estimated at 40,000 acres. Officials suspect downed power lines.
• Hundreds of flights were delayed at Denver International Airport.
• Numerous roadways were closed.
• And countless fences were toppled, trees were snapped and windows were shattered.

What's next: Xcel says crews will work to restore power as quickly as weather allows, but some residents could be in the dark through the weekend.