FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office

Red Flag Warning, Warming Shelter Update, and Community Preparedness

Gilpin County, CO — Thursday, December 18, 2025 | 11:30 a.m.

The Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office is providing the following update regarding current weather

conditions, power outages, and community resources.

As of 11:30 a.m. today, Thursday, December 18, the warming shelter remains open and

staffed by the Red Cross at:

Gilpin County School, 10595 Highway 119, Black Hawk, CO 80422

Access to the shelter is available through the upper entrance to the atrium at the high school

level. Due to safety and allergy concerns, only service animals are permitted. For residents

that don’t have transportation to the shelter, please contact the non-emergency dispatch number

at 303-582-5500 to make arrangements for transportation.

At this time, there is no estimated time for power restoration. A second storm system is

forecast for Friday, and conditions are expected to be extremely dangerous. Residents are

strongly encouraged to prepare now for extended power outages.

Community Preparedness and Safety Tips:

 Use alternate light sources; do not use candles due to fire risk

 Wood-burning stoves may be used indoors if properly vented and maintained

 Be aware that power outages may impact wells and septic systems

 Fill bathtubs with water for non-drinking needs

 Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible

 Unplug appliances to prevent damage from power surges

 Do not use kerosene or liquid-fuel heating sources indoors

 Keep extra batteries on hand

 Plan alternative power sources for medical devices

 Use your vehicle to charge phones for emergency use only

 Fill vehicles with fuel ahead of worsening conditions

The Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office is closely monitoring updates from the National Weather

Service (NWS), United Power, and Xcel Energy. Information will be shared as it becomes

available.

The Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page is the official source of verified county

information. Updates will be posted there as conditions change.

Please only call Dispatch or 911 for emergencies. Stay safe and stay warm.