Xcel Energy is preparing for a significant spring snowstorm expected to bring heavy, wet snow across much of Colorado Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, with additional crews on standby to restore power outages.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the I-25 corridor and foothills, forecasting 3 to 9 inches of dense, wet snow possible along the urban corridor — heaviest west of Interstate 25 — with 6 to 18 inches or more in the mountains and foothills.

The metro Denver area and plains could see 1 to 5 inches or higher accumulations on colder surfaces. An estimated 165 employees and crew members will be on standby statewide throughout the storm to restore electric and natural gas service as quickly as possible, according to Xcel.

Customers can help speed restoration by reporting outages promptly through the Xcel Energy mobile app, at www.xcelenergy.com/out, by texting OUT to 98936 or by calling 1-800-895-1999.

Outage information, including anticipated restoration times when available, is accessible via the app or online outage map.

In a statement, Xcel Energy spokesperson Michelle Aguayo advised that there are no Public Safety Power Shutoffs planned for this week.

“We use three factors to determine the need for a Public Safety Power Shutoff, including wind speed, relative humidity, and fuel moisture,” said Aguayo. “Two of those factors will not be in play this week, meaning wildfire risk will be low.”

The company offered several safety tips as customers prepare for possible outages and snow accumulation.

• Keep natural gas meters clear of snow and ice to prevent pressure buildup or leaks by gently removing accumulation by hand and maintaining a clear path.
• Use space heaters carefully, following all instructions and never leaving them unattended.
• Maintain indoor air quality with proper ventilation when cooking and install carbon monoxide detectors.
• Stay away from downed or sagging power lines, assuming they are energized, and report them immediately.

Xcel Energy also recommends building a home emergency kit that includes battery-powered devices, flashlights, nonperishable food, water, first aid supplies and the utility’s emergency phone numbers.