Sustained strong winds of 20 to 30 mph and gusts reaching over 50 mph today caused significant, widespread power outages for thousands of Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op (PIE&G) members. The outages affected PIE&G’s distribution system as well as Wolverine Power Cooperative’s transmission lines, knocking out two substations serving PIE&G members in Cheboygan County. Currently, PIE&G has approximately 2,270 outages that are widespread throughout its nine-county service area. The largest numbers are reported in Cheboygan, Montmorency and Presque Isle counties.
PIE&G anticipates that repairs will continue into tomorrow and that members who are currently without power should make preparations now to be without power overnight. Peak wind gusts this afternoon were reported at 54 mph in Cheboygan, 50 mph in Mackinaw City, 56 mph in Gaylord, and 61 mph in Pellston. The winds are predicted to calm down later tonight but may contribute to additional outages. Longer repair times are also anticipated for replacement of any broken poles and tree removals from lines. PIE&G and Wolverine Power crews will continue working to make repairs into tonight along with dispatchers and phone support by office staff.
PIE&G members should contact PIE&G immediately at (800) 423-6634 to report their power outage or any downed power lines. Residents are cautioned to stay at least 25 feet away from any downed wires and to report them immediately to PIE&G or a local law enforcement agency (911).
