Severe storms in West Michigan took out power for about 50,000 Consumers Energy customers yesterday (Wednesday, September 11). According to CE, as of 4:30 am today, power has been restored for over 15,000 homes and businesses. The storms brought 50 mph winds and reports of possible tornadoes in West Michigan.” CE says they “expect the majority of customers to have power by the end of the day today, with the hardest hit areas expected to be restored by Saturday. ”

When a storm takes out power, what should you know? The first concern is your safety and those around you. Consumers Energy says “stay at least 25 feet away from a downed wire.” They add “steer clear of water, trees, debris and fences” nearby and contact them as soon as possible (800-477-5050). Carl Evanson, A Plus Electric’s master electrician, adds another note of caution “a downed wire can electrify areas much farther away than you’d guess as electricity disburses in surprising ways. The results can be tragic.”

Consumers Energy is responsible to repair a downed wire up to the point where it touches your house. If any part of the lead-in to your house is damaged, you will need to call an electrician. That includes the mast.

For an outage map, please click here.

A Plus Electric can be reached at (517) 529-0000.