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Consumers Energy: Crews are prepared for power outages, restoration efforts ahead of storm

Although it's rare for Michigan to see thunderstorms during February, Consumers Energy said its crews are ready to respond.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — With the potential for severe thunderstorms heading toward West Michigan, Consumers Energy is readying crews to respond in case of power outages.

After 8 p.m. Tuesday, a round of thunderstorms will move quickly across the region, bringing with it the potential for hail, winds gusting 60+ mph and a spin-up tornado. The highest chance for severe weather is from midnight to 2 a.m. 

Crews of lineworkers and trucks with essential materials are being prepared to respond to outages or restoration efforts.

Although it's rare for Michigan to see thunderstorms during February, Consumers Energy said its crews are ready to respond.

“Consumers Energy knows our job is to be ready for any possible hazardous weather and to respond immediately when we can,” said Greg Salisbury, Consumers Energy’s Vice President of Electric Distribution Engineering. “We also are keeping a close eye on polling places, making sure voting can continue taking place in Michigan’s primaries.”

Ahead of the storm, Michiganders are encouraged to charge electronic devices and have supplies like batteries, flashlights and blankets prepared. TVs, power strips, computers and printers should be unplugged.

If you lose power and want to use a generator, the following precautions should be taken:

  • A portable generator should be placed at least 25 feet away from any doors, windows or fresh air intakes. Never operate a generator inside your home, garage, basement or enclosed area. Proper ventilation is critical.
  • In addition to moving your generator outdoors and away from your home doors and intakes, don’t run your vehicles in a garage or use your gas stove for heat. If you have a fireplace, ensure the flue is open and only use if it’s been cleaned and serviced this year.
  • Be alert to crews working along roads. Drivers should slow down or stop and wait for oncoming traffic to clear so they safely can go past workers on roadsides.

In addition, Michiganders are asked to stay at least 25 feet away from a downed wire. If a downed wire is seen, call 911 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050 to report it.

Power outages can be seen in real-time on the Consumers Energy outage map. The map also includes estimated times of restoration.

Stay with the 13 ON YOUR SIDE Meteorologists Tuesday night as we track the storm into West Michigan.

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