Dafter, Michigan —Cloverland Electric Cooperative reports approximately 2,200 remaining outages as of 5 p.m. Most of the remaining outages are in Chippewa County. While the overall number of outages continues to decline each day, outage counts will likely fluctuate throughout the weekend as a clipper system is forecasted Sunday afternoon.
In addition to its line workers, the cooperative also is receiving mutual aid support from other utilities across Michigan. In addition to 45 line crews, eight tree-trimming crews are aiding in their efforts by removing downed trees and debris in their path.
The number of broken poles and damaged equipment continues to add up along with the storm’s price tag which is expected to be above a million dollars. In just one area near East Lake, 30 to 40 broken poles were identified today and crews are actively working on repairs. Due the significant damage, power may not be restored in this affected area until next week.
“We appreciate all the help we are receiving from other utilities and contractors,” says President and CEO Mike Heise. “It’s been a long, difficult week, but we are steadily gaining ground and turning the lights back on for our members.”
Crews will continue 16-hour shifts with a mandatory 8-hour safety rest until all members are restored.
Those who depend on electricity for medical equipment should continue with their emergency back-up plans for alternate sources of power or alternate lodging. Members with unmet, non-emergency needs should call 2-1-1.
If using a portable generator during an outage, members are reminded to never operate a generator in an enclosed area or fuel it while it is running. For the safety of our line crews, never connect generators directly to your home’s wiring. A special transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician is required to prevent the reverse flow of electricity onto the power lines.
Cloverland Electric reminds the public to stay safe and stay clear of downed power lines and report them by calling (800) 562-4953 or local law enforcement agencies. Those with access to Cloverland Electric's website and Cloverland Electric’s Facebook page can stay current on restoration efforts and the latest updates available. However, the co-op reminds its members not to use Facebook or other social media platforms to report outages, post service addresses, or other account information.
Cloverland Electric Cooperative is a not-for-profit, member-owned utility located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It serves over 42,000 homes and businesses in Chippewa, Delta, Mackinac, Luce, and Schoolcraft counties.