PNM and Xcel Energy prepare for possible mandatory outages

Extremely strong and gusty winds are expected across New Mexico tonight and Friday. Due to the strong winds, PNM and Xcel Energy are warning customers of possible mandatory outages. According to PNM, an elevated risk of wildfires near Las Vegas is prompting crews to prepare the power system to be more sensitive to protect against any possible wildfires. Extended power outages are possible in the Las Vegas area. >>> Tracking outages: Track power outages in your area with an interactive mapPNM also says they are evaluating the possibility of a Public Safety Power Shutoff. This means they could turn power off to parts of Las Vegas during the strong wind event. PNM has not made a decision to implement the power outage at this time. In eastern and southeast New Mexico, Xcel Energy is planning for a possible Public Safety Power Shutoff on Friday. Xcel Energy says customers in Tucumcari, Roswell, and Hobbs could be impacted by the mandatory power outage.The duration of PNM and Xcel Energy’s possible power outages are unknown at this time.