Cooler but still well above normal this week

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 the Upper Midwest this week, Xcel Energy anticipates the heavy snow and high winds may cause downed power lines and outages. The utility says it has added crews to be ready to respond, but did not have a precise number.

Xcel spokesperson John Marshall said customers should report outages either by phone, or use the mobile app.

Although crews will be ready to respond quickly, Marshall said families should also be prepared in case of an emergency.

"We do suggest that families can consider building a home emergency kit if they need to in the event of a power outage, stock up with batteries and flashlights and maybe some phone chargers,” he said.

Some other items to have in your emergency kit include a phone that does not require electricity, bottled water, nonperishable food and a first-aid kit.

Marshall said some homeowners should make sure snow does not block gas meters.

“It's important to keep that snow in that ice clear from the gas meter so that the gas meter can have room to vent and have a proper operations,” he said, but cautioned that homeowners should use a shovel, not a snow blower to clear around a meter.

Marshall warns not to go near downed power lines, even if they’re near the ground.

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Tarkor Zehn

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With the first major snowstorm headed to the Upper Midwest this week, Xcel Energy anticipates the heavy snow and high winds may cause downed power lines and outages.

High wind and ice caused downed power lines near Rushmore, Minn.

Xcel Energy adds crews to respond to storm outages

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