Xcel Energy planned to cut power to 55,000 customers across six Colorado counties starting Saturday, citing dangerous wind conditions and increased wildfire risks.

Some customers in Boulder, Gilpin, Larimer, Douglas, Broomfield, and Jefferson Counties were slated for planned power outages starting around 3 p.m. local time on Saturday, continuing through noon on Sunday, according to a news release from the company cited by the Denver Post.

The preemptive shutdown came as Colorado was set to be hit with a powerful storm system including potential wind gusts of 100 mph.

Xcel provides electricity and natural gas to 1.6 million customers across Colorado.

A Douglas County Sheriff posted on X that traffic lights may be out as well and to treat lights like a four-way stop.

Outages may extend beyond Sunday due to crews having to physically inspect powerlines before turning them back on, the company said.

"Customers who use medical equipment that relies on electrical service should take steps to prepare for extended outages," Xcel said.

"Temporarily shutting power off is intended to prevent our electric system from becoming the source of a wildfire ignition." 

Xcel currently faces hundreds of lawsuits after investigators determined that one of the company's powerlines helped spark the wind-driven Marshall fire in Boulder County in 2021.

The high winds may damage electric equipment and cause additional outages of their own, Xcel said. 

Those dependent on oxygen were told to prepare enough spare supplies to last through Sunday, or consider staying with family, friends or in a hotel outside of the planned outage area.

Responders are only able to provide oxygen for medical emergencies.

South Metro Fire Rescue additionally warned residents against using gas stoves to warm their homes or an outdoor stove indoors for heating or cooking.

People were also advised to keep any generators outside in well-ventilated areas away from windows.