DTE Energy says about 15,000 people in metro Detroit are without power after severe storms rolled through the area on Thursday evening. That's down from the 89,000 people who were affected after the storms.
According to DTE, most of the outages are in Monroe, Washtenaw and Wayne counties.
DTE Energy notes that crews have already restored power to 74,000 to customers who originally lost power.
Right now, it's not clear when the power will be restored for the rest of the people impacted. DTE says they will have restoration estimates once crews assess the damage in the morning. They are working 16-hour shifts around the clock.
More severe storms are expected to hit metro Detroit on Friday morning. Downed power lines are to blame for a house fire in Roseville on Thursday night.
They are telling customers to stay at least 20 feet away from a downed power line and report them to DTE at 800-477-4747 or online at DTEEnergy.com or the DTE Energy Mobile App.
DTE Energy does give these storm tips for residents.
- Never drive across a downed power line. If a power line falls on your vehicle, remain inside until help arrives.
- Always operate generators outdoors to avoid dangerous buildup of toxic fumes.
- 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
- 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.
