MECOSTA COUNTY, Mich. — Thousands are without power in West Michigan following severe weather.
Thunderstorms rolled through the area Monday, leaving over 19,000 people without power, according to Consumers Energy and Great Lakes Energy's outage maps.
The majority of the outages were north of Grand Rapids, following US-131 north to Mecosta County. Some of the outages are also located around Flint and Saginaw.
As of early Tuesday morning, a majority of outages were restored.
You can stay up to date with the outages by following the two utility companies' outage maps.
Officials warn everyone to stay away from downed wires and everything they are touching, and call 911 if you spot one. They offer the following tips ahead of the storm:
- Charge all electronic devices. It’s advised to have an emergency battery or charging station available for use during an outage.
- Have an emergency kit that includes flashlights and extra batteries, water, canned food and blankets. Be prepared with enough medication, baby supplies and pet food if applicable. A battery-operated radio is also a good idea.
- Unplug sensitive electronics like TVs, computers and printers. Turn power strips off.
- Portable generator should be placed 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.
- 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.
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