News

Actions

DTE OUTAGES UPDATE: 49,000 without power in metro Detroit due to high winds

Posted at 12:21 PM, Nov 15, 2020
and last updated 2020-11-17 06:09:15-05

(WXYZ) — DTE said that there are still about 49,000 people without power in metro Detroit due to downed power lines from high winds on Sunday.

DTE said that the winds caused more than 1,800 downed power lines and around 285,000 power outages across its service territory.

As of 6 a.m. on Tuesday, DTE said they have restored power to about 236,000 people. DTE said that they have an additional 250 out-of-state workers arriving today from Wisconsin to add to the 2,000 DTE workers and 200 linemen from out of state.

Complete restoration for 90% of customers is expected by the end of the day Tuesday, while the vast majority to be restored by the end of the day Wednesday.

View outage map for restoration estimates here. To report an outage, click here.

Storm tips from DTE

  • 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.