EAU CLAIRE, Wis.- (April 13, 2026) — While the weather in Wisconsin and Michigan is unpredictable, especially in April, the threat of thunderstorms and tornadoes has arrived. During Severe Weather Preparedness Week (April 13 – 17), Xcel Energy reminds customers to prepare for severe weather expected later today and all season long, while the company and its crews are prepared to respond to power outages when they occur.
Xcel Energy has a strong commitment to safely restoring power as quickly as possible during weather-related outages, and one reason for that is the preparation done in advance. Crews and equipment are available at service centers throughout northwestern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula ready to restore electric service when bad weather strikes.
The spring season can bring a wide variety of unpredictable and severe weather like heavy snow, hail, thunderstorms, high winds and red flag warnings. In periods of increased wildfire risk in dry conditions and high winds, Xcel Energy may initiate Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings (EPSS) on its electric system. Applying EPSS to targeted power lines is an important way we enhance public safety during periods of high fire risk. EPSS prevents power lines from automatically restoring power if an issue is detected on the line. Crews then inspect the issue, verify the lines are clear of debris and ensure it’s safe to turn them back on. This may mean if an outage occurs, it could last longer.
To ensure customers are prepared, here are some practical tips to consider before the next storm strikes. Visit XcelEnergy.com for more outage tips.
Report your outage
Customers can help Xcel Energy get a jump on power restoration by reporting outages. Customers have several ways to report outages.
- Through the My Xcel Energy mobile app, available in the Apple App Store and through Google Play
- Online at xcelenergy.com/out
- 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
- By calling 1-800-895-1999 and following 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 when available.
Stay informed
Customers can stay informed by using the My Xcel Energy mobile app or visiting the Xcel Energy website. The company reminds customers to keep contact information current. Customers can make updates to their profile by signing into My Account through the mobile app or 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 X .
How customers can prepare, stay safe
- 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.
- 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:
- 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)
- Make back-up plans for medical equipment. Xcel Energy recommends taking necessary steps to provide back-up power for electric-operated medical equipment. In situations that are medically serious, customers should seek medical support at area facilities that have back-up power generation during extended outages.
- 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.
