EDUCATION

Xcel prepares shutoffs; Texas sues over wildfire damage

PUBLISHED Dec 15, 2025, 9:18 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 12

Center 83%

Right 17%

Sources: 12

Denver — Xcel Energy warned it may implement targeted public safety power shutoffs Wednesday across Front Range counties as National Weather Service forecasts high winds, low humidity and elevated fire danger; utilities cited safety and said restoration could take hours or days. Colorado school districts and universities announced closures or modified schedules affecting thousands of students. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued Xcel's Southwestern Public Service Company over the 2024 Smokehouse Creek Fire that killed three and caused over $1 billion damage, alleging negligence; Xcel acknowledged its equipment may have been involved. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Moonie | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2024 — Smokehouse Creek Fire ignites, killing three and causing major damage.
Post-2024 — Texas A&M Forest Service investigators link ignition to a decayed utility pole.
August 2025 — Texas AG opens investigation into Xcel's role in the fire.
This week — Texas AG files suit alleging negligence by Xcel; company acknowledges possible equipment involvement.
This week — NWS warns high winds; Xcel plans targeted PSPS across Front Range and schools alter schedules.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 12
Right Leaning:: 2
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 10
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 83%, Right 17%

Who Benefited

Public safety agencies and communities may benefit from preventive shutoffs that reduce wildfire ignition risk; Texas state authorities may seek financial recovery through litigation.

Who Impacted

Residents, students, schools, small businesses and utility customers suffered disruptions from planned outages and face ongoing risk and potential property loss; Xcel faces legal and financial consequences.