Energy companies preparing for weekend snowstorm, say outages are possible

(St. Paul, MN) -- Xcel Energy is urging customers to prepare for possible power outages as winter weather returns to Minnesota.  

The utility says it's preparing for the incoming storms and that customers can help by immediately reporting any outages. Xcel also recommends brushing snow and ice from gas meters to prevent leaks and pressure buildups.

 A winter weather advisory was in effect for parts of the state overnight, and more snow is expected on Sunday.