As of Saturday morning, March 15, over 12,000 Consumers Energy customers in mid-Michigan were without power due to overnight storms. The majority of the affected areas, approximately 12,145 homes and businesses, are in the St. Charles area southwest of Saginaw. Other areas affected include 735 without power east of Mount Pleasant and 423 without power north of Lansing. Additionally, just after 11:15 a.m., Consumers Energy reported 3,044 more homes and businesses without power in and around Belding, located northwest of Ionia.
DTE Energy also reported 346 customers without power, primarily in the Metro Detroit area. The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning for several counties, including Grand Traverse, Leelanau, Benzie, and Manistee, warning of strong winds that could cause power outages, blow down branches, and displace unsecured objects. Wind gusts are expected to reach 45-50 mph across much of the state, making travel difficult for high-profile vehicles.
While the number of outages is expected to remain high, the strong winds are forecasted to develop before noon and continue into the afternoon and evening. This could lead to even more outages, making safe travel and outdoor activities challenging. Residents are advised to be cautious and take necessary precautions to secure their property and vehicles.