More than 50K DTE customers without power amid severe weather in Michigan
(CBS DETROIT) - Severe weather on Thursday in Michigan is causing thousands of power outages across the state.
As of 8 a.m. Friday, DTE reported 59,495 customers without power. Meanwhile, Consumers Energy reported 3,041 of its customers are affected
READ: NEXT Weather Alert Day for severe weather risk in Southeast Michigan Thursday
A line of strong to severe thunderstorms continue to progress east through SE MI. The main hazards will be gusts around 60 mph and hail between 1-2 inches. A tornado cannot be ruled out as the storms approach the Metro region and locations south to the OH border. #miwx pic.twitter.com/iy0hzWYkvB
— NWS Detroit (@NWSDetroit) July 20, 2023
DTE urges residents to follow these safety tips with downed lines:
- Safety for the community is always DTE's top priority. Downed power lines may be hidden by debris, so be careful as you head outside. Remember a power line doesn't always spark, make noise or jump around. It could lay on the ground like a stick or snake.
- Stay at least one bus length (25 feet) away from downed power lines and don't touch anything they may be in contact with – always consider them live and dangerous.
- Everyone should also heed the warning of yellow caution tape, which indicates there is a downed power line in the area. Do not cross yellow caution tape.
- Never use a portable generator inside a home or business. It emits carbon monoxide, which can be deadly. Keep it outside, away from windows and doors, so the fumes won't come in.