GRAND RAPIDS, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The remnants of Tropical Storm Cristobal are headed this way, and one of the effects will be high winds that whip up some of the Great Lakes.
As of Tuesday, gale warnings are in effect for Lake Michigan and part of Lake Superior. The National Weather Service in Grand Rapids reports that 10-12-foot waves are expected along the Lake Michigan shoreline, increasing the amount of erosion in that area.
Red flag warnings are also in effect.
According to the National Weather Services, winds will increase Tuesday afternoon and evening alongside a small chance for strong to severe thunderstorms. Damaging winds will be the primary concern with storms, and the chance for a brief tornado is also a possibility.
Similar forecasts are in place for Wednesday, June 10. Strong to severe thunderstorms will be possible again Wednesday afternoon and evening, especially for areas east of US-131. Damaging wind gusts, hail to 1 inch, and even a brief tornado are all possible risks with these thunderstorms.
A statement from Consumers Energy released Tuesday states that the company is aware of these conditions and is prepared to respond to any down wires and power outages that may occur.
Consumers Energy reminds the public to stay at least 25 feet away from a downed wire and anything it is touching. Report downed wires by calling 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050.
Always assume a downed wire, even if not sparking, is energized.
Customers are also reminded, if they lose power, to never use a generator in an attached garage, basement, enclosed patio or near any air intakes. Doing so could cause a generator to produce hazardous levels of carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless and deadly gas.
Portable generators should be operated 25 feet outside of any building, away from windows, doors and vents.
(Jim McKinney contributed to this article).
