GRAND RAPIDS, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Consumers Energy says as the sun dawned on Saturday, that about 77,000 customers were still without power after this week’s ice storms, down from the 231-thousand who lost power at some time this week since Wednesday. Some may remain in the dark until sometime Monday.
They have been battling cold, sleet and winds up to 55 mph for the last two days.
“With favorable weather conditions expected on Saturday, we expect continued progress on our restoration efforts,” said Guy Packard, Consumers Energy vice president of electric operations. “As always, I am truly grateful for our customers’ patience and understanding while our crews work to restore their power safely.”
There are also a few areas in Allegan, Barry and Calhoun Counties with outages. Because most of the focus is on the Grand Rapids area, it may be a while before they see crews. Most of them have not even been assigned yet.
Spokesperson Terry Dedoes says for most living without power is an inconvenience, but downed lines could be deadly and it’s essential you keep your distance. He says it may not be sparking, but it could still be charged and very dangerous. They should be reported immediately.
Over 2,000 workers from Michigan and eight other states, including Louisiana have been brought in to help restore power.
Consumers officials say they are looking ahead to a storm predicted for Tuesday, that could be just as damaging as these have been.
In the meantime, tens of thousands of homeowners in West Michigan area are trying to figure out ways to keep their pipes from freezing, trees from falling on their homes and other assorted calamities.
For those who are off the grid, it’s a good idea to unplug computers, televisions and other electronic devices until after power has been completely restored, just in case there is a surge on the line, especially if they are not on a surge protector.
