Crews have been working around the clock and expect to restore power by the end of today for most customers affected by the string of tornadoes, thunderstorms and hail that swept through Michigan May 15-17. The Company is supporting the hardest-hit communities of Kalamazoo and Battle Creek today by offering free meals for those who’ve lost power.

“Our crews are working hard to help return life to normal by restoring power safely and as quickly as possible,” said Sri Maddipati, one of Consumers Energy’s Officers in Charge for restoration. “We thank those affected by the recent storms for their patience and support as we repair the extensive damage done and reach those areas most impacted.”

Nearly 700 crews have been mobilized to help restore customers’ power after a severe line of storms caused outages from Kalamazoo and other west Michigan communities to Lansing and Saginaw. Contract crews from eight states – from as far away as Louisiana – are working alongside Consumers Energy lineworkers to help restore communities hit hardest by severe weather, including Battle Creek, Kalamazoo and Muskegon.

Customers in hardest-hit areas should see power restored by the end of the day Monday.

We are partnering today with the American Red Cross of Michigan to provide water and a free meal to community members who lost power in Kalamazoo. Additionally, water and a free meal are being offered to affected customers in Battle Creek.

View the Outage Map for the latest on restoration efforts in your area.