OTTAWA COUNTY, Mich. — A portion of I-196 in Ottawa County been closed due to downed power lines.
The Michigan Department of Transportation tweeted out that wastbound I-196 at Adams Street and westbound I-196 at Byron Road were impacted. The power lines went down around 12:40 p.m. Wednesday.
Eastbound traffic is being routed off the freeway at Adams Street.
There is no word yet on how long the freeway will be closed.
13 ON YOUR SIDE Chief Meteorologist George Lessen is tracking the severe thunderstorm sweeping West Michigan. Watch his coverage with Meteorologist Michael Behrens.
The National Weather Service expected the storms to start around noon and last until around 9 p.m. for much of lower Michigan.
The heavy rains could lead to flooding Thursday, especially near the lakeshore.
Storm Safety
Consumers Energy reminds the public to stay at least 25 feet away from a downed wire and anything it is touching. Report downed wires by calling 9-1-1 and Consumers Energy at 800-477-5050. Always assume a downed wire, even if not sparking, is energized.
Customers are also reminded, if they lose power, to never use a generator in an attached garage, basement, enclosed patio or near any air intakes. Doing so could cause a generator to produce hazardous levels of carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless and deadly gas. Portable generators should be operated 25 feet outside of any building, away from windows, doors and vents.
PHOTOS: Storm damage across West Michigan
RELATED VIDEO:
MORE on 13 ON YOUR SIDE:
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
