Nik Rajkovic / news@whmi.com

Consumers Energy crews expect to restore power by the end of the day Sunday 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.”

According to a release, Consumers Energy mobilized nearly 700 crews 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.

Consumers Energy partnered Sunday with the American Red Cross of Michigan to provide water and a free meal to community members who lost power in Kalamazoo. Additionally, the Company is providing water and a free meal to affected customers in Battle Creek.

“Although we were prepared for their arrival, these storms were severe and caused extensive, widespread issues,” Maddipati said. “Please know we’re doing all we can and accept our gratitude for your understanding and support as we meet the storm’s challenges together.”

Maddipati also thanks customers across Michigan who’ve banded together to help each other in the storms’ aftermath.

Maddipati encourages people to watch for downed wires and crews working along often busy roads, and to stay at least 25 feet away from downed power lines.

Anyone who sees an unguarded downed power line should first call 9-1-1, then Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050.