DURANGO, Colo. (July 26, 2025) - La Plata Electric Association (LPEA) is closely monitoring two wildfires within its service territory that may impact electric infrastructure and require power shutoffs to protect the public, emergency personnel, and the grid. 

The Rim Road Fire, burning south of County Road 318, is currently threatening LPEA infrastructure on the Sunnyside 121 circuit, which serves 793 meters. To support emergency response efforts and reduce risk, power to this circuit may be shut off with little or no notice. All impacted members have been notified directly via text, phone, and email. 

The Elkhorn Fire is also being closely watched. LPEA has de-energized one meter in the area and is in direct coordination with the local fire marshal to support additional de-energizations, as needed, based on fire behavior and public safety considerations. 

“LPEA is taking all necessary precautions to protect lives and property while keeping the lights on as long as it is safe to do so,” said Chris Hansen, LPEA CEO. “We’re coordinating closely with local fire and emergency officials and are prepared to respond rapidly as conditions evolve.” 

LPEA encourages all members in affected areas to take the following steps: 

• Prepare for possible extended outages 

• Charge essential devices and gather emergency supplies, including any necessary medical items 

• Monitor evacuation notices from local authorities 

• Keep LPEA alerts enabled 

Power shutoffs may be necessary when wildfire activity, high winds, or other extreme conditions pose an imminent threat to public safety. LPEA makes these decisions in coordination with emergency response partners, based on real-time field assessments. 

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