WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
- Crews are actively restoring power in areas where storms have cleared. Storms brought damaging winds and heavy rain across our communities.
- About 9,000 customers are without power, including approximately 8,130 in Allen County, 670 in St. Joseph County and fewer than 250 in southwest Michigan.
- Additional strong storms are possible overnight, but crews will continue working around the clock to restore power safely and as quickly as possible.
- Stay safe and stay informed: Customers with smart meters do not need to report outages. Stay away from downed power lines, keep contact information up to date, and use the I&M app for outage updates and alerts.
SITUATION
Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) crews are responding tonight to restore power as quickly and safely as possible following the first round of severe storms, which brought damaging winds and heavy rain across our communities.
As of 8:30 p.m., approximately 9,000 customers are without power, including 8,130 in Allen County, Ind., 670 in St. Joseph County, Ind. and fewer than 250 in southwest Michigan. Where the weather has passed, Crews are in impacted neighborhoods and towns making downed power lines and poles safe, assessing damage and restoring service.
We know power outages can be especially challenging during summer heat when families depend on air conditioning, medical equipment and staying connected. That's why crews will continue working throughout the night to restore power, even as additional rounds of strong to severe thunderstorms remain possible.
The storms could cause additional damage to trees, power lines, power poles and other electrical equipment. Flash flooding and saturated ground may also create hazardous conditions and make restoration efforts more difficult.
We appreciate our customers' patience and will continue providing updates every step of the way as we work to restore power.
IF YOU LOSE POWER
If you lose power, first check whether the outage has already been reported. Customers with smart meters do not need to report an outage because the meter automatically notifies us. If you do not have a smart meter, report your outage through our app or by phone. While power is being restored, unplug sensitive electronics and use flashlights instead of candles.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
- Connect with I&M: Customers should update their I&M account information. Make sure the email address and phone number on file are up to date. The fastest way to get information is through the I&M app and text or email alerts.
- Stay Away from Downed Lines: All downed lines should be considered energized and deadly. The power line and anything it could touch, including fences, storm debris, and standing water, can carry electric current that could cause serious or fatal injuries. If you see a fallen wire, keep yourself and others (including pets) away and call local police or I&M immediately at 1-800-311-4634.
For more safety tips, visit www.IndianaMichiganPower.com/Weather