Sustained winds persisting through Thursday night and continuing this morning, has caused additional power outages for Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op (PIE&G) members. The winds caused significant, widespread power outages for utilities across northern Michigan and the UP. Since yesterday, approximately 22,265 services lost power on PIE&G’s distribution system, and 13,500 services are now restored. PIE&G estimates approximately 8,800 services are still out. PIE&G responded to an unusually large number of 911 Emergency calls for downed power lines, and tree and line damage is extensive throughout its nine-county service area. The largest number of outages are reported in Cheboygan, Montmorency and now Oscoda counties.

Winds are causing more falling trees, contributing to additional outages. Longer repair times are necessary for replacement of at least 10 broken poles found so far, and for tree removals from lines.  PIE&G has two Kent Power crews, one from Wolverine Power, four crews from Campbell Electric, and more help from Thumb Electric Cooperative on the way to assist.  Standby crews worked all night, and fresh crews started again at 7 a.m. PIE&G will continue efforts to restore power as safely and quickly as possible. However, with the extent of the damage, PIE&G anticipates that repairs will continue for several days. Members who are still without power today, should prepare to be without power another day.

PIE&G members should contact PIE&G immediately at (800) 423-6634 to report their power outage or any downed power lines. Stay at least 25 feet away from any downed wires, assume they are energized, and report them immediately to PIE&G or local law enforcement (911).