Metro Detroit Outages: DTE expecting power loss across region

(FOX 2) - With a High Wind Warning and high wind gusts expected to hit Southeast Michigan on Monday, utilities are preparing for a busy afternoon with possible outages.

DTE says it has response teams in place to deal with a loss of power to homes around the region.

DTE: Outages sure to climb

With over 13,000 homes without power, DTE is expecting weather conditions to worsen and cause more outages throughout the day.

Bill Hutchinson with the utility said Monday the company was preparing for falling limbs to disrupt power and create havoc as wind speeds continue to evolve.

"Outages are almost sure to increase throughout the day and into the evening as conditions evolve," he said.

Tap here to see the DTE outage map. 

The ice that accumulated on power lines over the weekend was worse in Pontiac and Waterford, with .3 inches formed on lines. While the ice is no longer a concern, the impacts from event are continuing to be felt as power loss remains.

Linesmen are also expected to struggle to restore power due to the conditions, including dangerous winds pushing around bucket trucks.

That could delay restoration by even more.

In preparation for the wind, crews were brought in throughout the Midwest to help out. 

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If someone does come across a downed power line, they should avoid the spot. 

DTE recommends staying at least 25 feet away from the downed lines, and assume they are live and dangerous. If anyone sees downed power lines, they're asked to report it here.

If there is an emergency, such as a fire or you see a power line on an unoccupied car, first call 911 then call the power company. DTE Energy can be reached at 800-477-4747. Consumers Energy can be reached at 800-477-5050.

More: How to apply for reimbursement from DTE, Consumers Energy

If you are inside your vehicle and a wire falls on it, DTE says to stay in your vehicle and call 911. 

However, if you must get out of the vehicle, DTE advises removing loose clothing, and getting out without touching the frame. Jump with your feet together to avoid touching the vehicle and ground at the same time. Do not remove your feet until you are at least 20 feet away from the vehicle. 

46k Outages Elsewhere

The recent blast of active weather over the weekend has already knocked out power for a big chunk of the state further to the north.

Approximately 46,000 households remain without power, according to Consumers Energy.

The bulk of those outages are north of Mount Pleasant, near Claire off of Highway 127.

See the outage map here.

According to Consumers Energy, they have 500 crews responding to the outages and hope to have power restored by 10 p.m.

High Wind Warning

Michigan will be under a high wind warning for the majority of Monday. 

The National Weather Service issued the order from 4 a.m. until 9 p.m. The winds will shift from Southwest to Northwest at 25 to 35 mph. Occasional gusts between 45 and 55 mph are expected with a speeds climbing to 60 mph.

That means downed wires and tree branches are not out of the question.

Incoming snow could also worsen visibility on the road.