New Delhi, Dec. 19 -- Utility companies across Colorado are taking emergency measures as extreme wind conditions and critically dry weather elevate wildfire risks to dangerous levels, according to AccuWeather.

Xcel Energy Colorado said it will implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) for customers in Boulder, Clear Creek, Gilpin, Jefferson, Larimer and Weld counties on Friday (December 19), beginning as early as 5 a.m.

AccuWeather warned that a combination of roaring winds and dry brush has pushed wildfire risk to extreme levels in parts of Colorado and Wyoming, and to high levels across portions of the Great Plains.

The strongest winds are expected just east of Colorado's Front Range, extending through the foothills and onto the...