United Power crews have been working since sunrise today to restore as many members as possible. The going has been tough with many downed trees, broken poles, and damaged equipment. We estimate there are 1,000 members without power as of 6:30 p.m. Crews continue to encounter trees in lines, broken poles, and downed lines, which is difficult to safely navigate in the dark. Due to safety concerns, United Power crews will not be conducting any additional work on the system until daylight Saturday.  

Because of ongoing high fire-risk conditions, all power lines will continue to be set to the most sensitive protective system settings (Wildfire Safety Mode) through Saturday morning at minimum. This setting immediately cuts power if a problem is detected on the line. This may increase the risk of additional outages overnight and into tomorrow, but will prevent further damage should the area continue to experience high winds. Physical inspections are required before power can be safely restored, so if power goes out tonight to anyone restored earlier today, it will be Saturday before line crews can once again restore your power. 
 
Weather permitting, crews will work to restore the full system on Saturday. 

If you are unable to shelter in your home due to temperature and/or other critical needs, a warming center at the Gilpin County School is open at 10595 Hwy 119, Black Hawk, CO 80422. There is information here regarding other local Office of Emergency Management resources. 

We know some of our members have already been without power for days following this windstorm, and may face another night in the dark. Thank you for your continued patience and understanding and the trust you place in United Power, especially during times like these. It is our privilege to power you.