Estes Park Crews Tackle Power Outages Amid High Winds

Estes Park Power & Communications crews are actively addressing widespread power outages across the town's service area today, as intense high winds continue to impact the region.

According to a Friday morning news release, crews are diligently inspecting lines and poles, performing necessary repairs, and working to restore power to affected areas.

The release notes, "Restoration may be slowed by weather conditions. Extreme winds limit the ability to use some equipment, like bucket trucks."

As of 9:30 a.m., outages have been reported on the southwest and south sides of Estes Park, extending along Colorado Highway 7 as far south as Allenspark. Additional outages are affecting neighborhoods along U.S. Highways 34 and 36, east of town.

Residents are urged to call 911 if they encounter downed power lines.

The release emphasizes, "Our system immediately alerts us to the vast majority of power outages. When an area is shown on the outage map, we are already responding—no need to report the outage. When multiple outages occur, our crews prioritize their response by focusing first on essential services like schools and hospitals, then by the number of people affected."

Given the extreme wildfire risk, the town advises against any outdoor burning or activities that could produce sparks and potentially start a wildfire.

To prepare for power outages, residents are encouraged to:

• Ensure personal medical devices are fully charged and have a backup power source for electrically powered medical equipment. Maintain an emergency supply of all prescription and non-prescription medications, including those requiring refrigeration (e.g., insulin).

• Stock up on batteries and consider purchasing portable power banks to keep devices charged.

• Set refrigerators and freezers to the coldest setting when conditions may lead to outages. This helps keep food cold for up to four hours in the fridge and up to 48 hours in the freezer.

• During an outage, turn off or unplug electronics and appliances to prevent damage from power surges when electricity is restored.

• Designate a safe outdoor area for generators, grills, and stoves, ensuring they are working correctly. Never operate these indoors or in partially enclosed spaces.

• Practice opening automatic garage doors manually, without the electronic motor.

For more information on power outage preparedness, visit the Town of Estes Park's official website.