MINNEAPOLIS (6-24-23) — Xcel Energy crews are in the field working to restore power for customers in the Twin Cities Metro after strong winds caused equipment damage which resulted in outages impacting approximately 30,000 customers. Because we plan and prepare for weather that may impact our reliability, we had extra crews proactively scheduled this weekend and they are currently on site assessing the damages and working to safely restore power as quickly as possible.

We know that outages can be an inconvenience for our customers and appreciate their understanding and patience as crews continue restoration efforts. Below are some tips for those who may be experiencing an outage.   

Report your outage  

Customers can help Xcel Energy get a jump on power restoration by reporting outages when they experience them. There are a number of ways to report outages:

  • Through the My Xcel Energy mobile app, available in the Apple App Store and through Google Play.
  • Via text by texting ‘OUT’ to 98936 to report an outage, or text STAT to the same number to check the status of a power outage. 
  • Call 1-800-895-1999 and follow the prompts—the automated phone reporting system lets customers report outages in less than 60 seconds. Once the cause of the problem is identified, the system or an Xcel Energy representative will provide customers with an estimated restoration time. 

Stay informed about outages  

When outages occur, it’s important for customers to have access to the most recent updates about their power restoration. Customers can stay informed by using the My Xcel Energy mobile app or by visiting the Xcel Energy website. The website hosts an outage map that displays information on the number of customers out and anticipated time for restoration when available. Customers can also stay informed by following Xcel Energy on Facebook and Twitter.

  

Other ways customers can prepare and stay safe ahead of future storms

  • Stay away from downed power lines. Always assume an electric line, even one that is on or near the ground, is energized and therefore dangerous. Never, under any circumstance, touch or move a downed power line. If you come across a downed power line, leave the area and report it immediately by calling 1-800-895-1999. 
  • Check for damage to your mast. Customers with damage to their electric service mast should contact a licensed electrician. Repairs must be made before service can be restored. For more information about mast damage, visit xcelenergy.com/outages_and_emergencies/mast_damage.
  • Build a home emergency kit. Xcel Energy recommends assembling an easily accessible kit that can be used in the event of a power outage. Useful items may include: 
    • Xcel Energy phone numbers - 1-800-895-1999 for residential or 1-800-481-4700 for business 
    • Battery-powered radio or television 
    • Flashlights 
    • Batteries 
    • Back up phone chargers 
    • A phone that does not require electricity 
    • Non-electric alarm clock 
    • Bottled water and nonperishable food 
    • Manual can opener 
    • First aid kit 
    • Extension cords (for partial outages) 
    • Manufacturer's instructions on how to manually open power-operated doors (e.g., garage doors) 
  • Observe food safety. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, food safety is directly related to the temperature of the food. To maintain refrigerator and freezer temperatures, keep doors closed as much as possible. A full freezer will stay at freezing temperatures for approximately two days and a half-full freezer approximately one day. Visit the USDA website for more information. 
  • Additional tips: https://mn.my.xcelenergy.com/s/outage-safety/outage-checklist

About Xcel Energy 

Xcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) provides the energy that powers millions of homes and businesses across eight Western and Midwestern states. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company is an industry leader in responsibly reducing carbon emissions and producing and delivering clean energy solutions from a variety of renewable sources at competitive prices. For more information, visit xcelenergy.com or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.