April 13, 2020 (Onaway) Sustained high winds and downed trees and branches falling onto overhead power lines this afternoon caused outages for several thousand Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op (PIE&G) members across northeast Michigan. PIE&G crews have been dispatched and Co-op staff will continue working after hours tonight. Currently, PIE&G has approximately 3,200 outages that are widespread throughout its nine-county service area. So far, the largest numbers are reported in Montmorency and Presque Isle Counties.
PIE&G anticipates that repairs will continue into tomorrow and that members who are currently without power should make preparations now to be without power overnight. Gusts this afternoon were reported at 58 mph in Gaylord and 57 mph in Presque Isle. The sustained winds are predicted to continue overnight and into tomorrow and will likely contribute to additional outages. Delays in repair times are also anticipated for replacement of any broken poles and tree removals from lines. All available personnel will continue restoration efforts tonight.
PIE&G members should contact PIE&G immediately at (800) 423-6634 to report their power outage or any downed power lines. Residents are cautioned to stay at least 25 feet away from any downed wires and to report them immediately to PIE&G or a local law enforcement agency.
