DETROIT – Several thousand DTE Energy customers in metro Detroit are without power after strong winds blew through the area.
According to a spokesperson for the company, 5,000 customers remain without power. The outages are scattered across southeast Michigan, including the Thumb region.
DTE Energy will have crews out fixing the issues throughout the day.
The National Weather Service has issued gale warnings for the Great Lakes.
Off of western Michigan in Lake Michigan, waves of 10 to 15 feet are expected to subside to about 3 to 5 feet as the day passes. Waves of 11 to 16 feet are possible on Lake Superior. And Lake Huron is expected to see high winds and waves up to 7 feet.
Take a look at DTE Energy's Outage Map here.
Call DTE Energy at 800-477-4747 to report an outage.
DTE said customers should stay away from any downed lines and anything they come in contact with, and to keep an eye out for children and pets.
Storm tips:
Never drive across a downed power line. If a power line falls on your vehicle, remain inside until help arrives.
Don't open refrigerators or freezers more often than absolutely necessary. A closed refrigerator will stay cold for 12 hours. Kept closed, a well-filled freezer will preserve food for two days.
Turn off or unplug all appliances to prevent an electrical overload when power is restored. Leave on one light switch to indicate when power is restored.
Always operate generators outdoors to avoid dangerous buildup of toxic fumes.
If a customer is elderly or has a medical condition that would be adversely impacted by a power outage, they should try to make alternative accommodations with family or friends.
During low-voltage conditions – when lights are dim and television pictures are smaller – shut off motor-driven appliances such as refrigerators to prevent overheating and possible damage. Sensitive electronic devices also should be unplugged.
Stay out of flooded or damp basements or other areas if water is in contact with outlets or any electrically-operated appliance. The water or moisture may serve as a conductor of electricity. This can cause serious or even fatal injury.
Assemble an emergency kit. It should include a battery-powered radio, a flashlight and candles, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, bottled water and non-perishable food.
Customers who depend on electrically powered medical equipment should ask their physician about an emergency battery back-up system. If a customer is elderly or has a medical condition that would be adversely impacted by a power outage, they should develop an emergency plan that allows for alternative accommodations with family or friends.
Keep a corded or cell phone on hand because a cordless telephone needs electricity to operate. Also, customers should learn how to manually open automated garage doors.
Customers who depend on a well for drinking water need to plan ahead on how they will obtain water. Store containers of water for cooking and washing.