GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. —
Preparation is key when it comes to severe weather.
On Sunday, the National Weather Service is warning West Michigan residents of high winds and whiteout conditions. Wind gusts could hit 50 - 60 mph in the area.
Police and other officials are telling people to prepare for possible power outages.
“We're expecting we could have significant numbers of outages,” said Roger Morgenstern, a Consumers Energy spokesperson.
When compiling a storm preparation checklist, here are some main items to keep in mind:
- Have non-perishable food and drinking water. “Especially if they're on a well system. If they lose power, they'll lose water too,” said Morgenstern.
- Have plenty of food for pets
- Check that prescriptions are filled
- Charge electronic devices
- Help others in need prepare
“If you know someone elderly in your neighborhood, or if you've got friends and family, make sure you check on them as well,” Morgenstern said.
Consumers Energy is also preparing for the storm, which some are calling a 'bomb cyclone.'
“We're making sure we have additional people on call ready to go. The trucks are stocked; we're ready to hit back when mother nature hits us on Sunday,” Morgenstern said.
Consumers Energy also reminded residents to be careful around downed wires.
“What the high winds will do, they will bring a fair amount of trees down, so we expect to see a lot of downed wires,” Morgenstern said.
Downed trees and falling limbs can also become an issue.
“I think the most important thing to focus on are the low-lying limbs, and be aware of them and addressing the issue," said Dustin Meyers, an arborist with Timber Ridge Tree Service. "And just being cautious not to have one come down on you, or your family, or your home, or your car.”
Remember stay at least 25 feet away from any downed power lines. And make sure to run a generator outside, in a well ventilated area.
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