DENVER -- Good morning! Here’s what you need to know today, Wednesday, April 18, 2018.
1. Thousands still without power
As of 5:30 a.m., about 9,000 Xcel Energy customers were still without power around metro Denver after Tuesday's damaging windstorm. Wind gusts over 80 mph brought down trees and power lines along the Front Range.
2. Several fires burning in Colorado
High winds helped fuel a number of fires across the state yesterday. One of the larger fires is the 117 Fire in Pueblo County, which has forced the evacuation of hundreds of homes east of Hanover.
3. Much calmer weather today
Today will be a touch cooler than yesterday, with highs in the mid- to upper 50s across the Metro Area. We'll see sunshine and much less windy conditions. Winds will not be as strong on Wednesday, but still breezy especially across northeastern Colorado.
4. Pit bull ban repeal moves forward
The Castle Rock Town Council voted Tuesday to move a pit bull ban repeal onto the next step. It's now one future vote away from approval. Seven other communities in Colorado have pit bull bans, including Denver.
5. Flags at half-staff for Barbara Bush
President Trump has ordered flags lowered to half-staff through Saturday night in memory of former first lady Barbara Bush, who died Tuesday at the age of 92.