Consumers Energy Storm Update: Power Restoration Progress
JACKSON, Mich. — After two intense storm rounds in the last 24 hours, Consumers Energy reports substantial progress in power restoration efforts. Approximately 80% of affected customers, or 41,000 out of 51,000, have had their power restored.
Restoration Efforts
- Crews are deployed in the hardest-hit regions, including Ingham, Shiawassee, and Monroe counties.
- A mobile command center has been established in Okemos for coordinated response efforts.
Norm Kapala, a Consumers Energy officer, stated, “Thanks to targeted investments in vegetation management, stronger poles, grid automation, and strategic crew staging, we’ve accelerated our progress, ensuring most customers have power going into the holiday weekend.”
- Over 90% of affected customers saw restoration within 8 hours on Thursday, and 97% were restored within 12 hours.
- Most remaining customers should have power restored Friday night, with the hardest-hit areas expected to regain power by Saturday.
Safety Reminders for the Community
- Travel Caution: Be careful while traveling after dark due to debris and ongoing restoration activities. Slow down or stop to allow safe passage for oncoming traffic.
- Downed Power Lines: Keep at least 25 feet away from downed lines and report them to 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050. Remember, false reports can hinder restoration efforts.
- Generator Safety: Never use a generator in an enclosed space as it poses a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Tree Removal: Consumers Energy will handle tree trimming/removal impacting power lines, but property owners are responsible for debris cleanup afterward.
- If your home’s service mast is damaged, a licensed electrician must repair or replace it after crews reconnect the electrical service.
Outage Information
Customers can monitor the status of outages and sign up for alerts regarding restoration times through Consumers Energy’s outage center. For outage alerts, text ‘REG’ to 232273 or visit this link.
Stay safe and informed as the restoration efforts continue!
