WEST MICHIGAN - Thousands of Michigan residents are without power this Christmas Eve after a strong wind storm overnight.
Winds in some areas topped 60 miles per hour.
More than 300 workers from five different states joined the task of restoring power to area residents.
As of 9:30 p.m., Consumers Energy reported 91,000 homes and businesses are without power. Winds were to subside as the went on, so crews will be out restoring power throughout the week. Due to the damage, some areas may not get power back until Sunday.
“We appreciate the response to our call for assistance to companies within Michigan and outside the state to help our customers,” said Mary Palkovich, Consumers Energy’s vice president of energy delivery. “Having these additional men and women will certainly help our restoration efforts. And we thank our customers for their continued patience while we safely restore power, especially during the Christmas holiday.”
As of 5:30 p.m., Great Lakes Energy reported 19,544 customers are without power.
The Geek Group at 902 Leonard NW in Grand Rapids is offering westside residents without power access to their chargers and internet access.