Severe Storms Slam West Michigan, Leaving Thousands in the Dark

On Thursday evening, on May 15, 2025, a powerful line of fierce storms in Western Michigan was swept, which caused widespread damage and the electricity of thousands of residents got. The storm, who crossed the Michigan Lake, reached the edge of the lake at 9:30 pm, the trees were broken and the power lines were particularly impact on Muskegon, Ottawa and Kalamazoo counties. National Weather Service (NWS) released several fierce storms and whirlwinds, in which Radar indicated the potential whirlwind, although any touchdown has not been confirmed.

Emergency crews tackle storm chaos in West Michigan, May 2025.

Hurricane effect and damage

Hurricane has left the destruction marks in the entire area:

• Power reduction: Till 11:30 pm, more than 125,000 consumers energy customers were without electricity throughout the state. About 20,000 deductions were seen in Muskegon County, while Kalamazoo County reported more than 43,000 affected customers.

• Physical damage: The falling trees, blocked roads and electricity lines, as well as small fire in some areas. In Norton Shores, the resident Derek Deborer shared photos of the trees, which exposes the intensity of the storm.

• Emergency Response: Ottawa County Sheriff Office (OCSO) and Kalamazoo Public Security Department (KDPS) urged the residents to stay away from the streets so that employees can get an opportunity to get debris and deal with the dangers. Kalamazoo authorities received received more than 230 calls about the dangers of traffic till 12:30 pm

Security and community advice

Local authorities and Consumers Energy issued important security guidelines:

• Road Safety: It has been said to avoid traveling from residents, especially in Kalamazoo, so that cooperation can be supported in cleaning efforts and ensure the security of the crew.

• Lines of Lines: Stay away at least 25 feet away from the falling lines and report 911 or Consumers Energy on 800-477-5050.Unionfs. Repair work can be delayed by the incorrect reporting of the lines.

• Generator Security: Do not use generators in closed places to avoid carbon monoxide toxicity. More guidance is available here.

Consumer energy response

Consumers Energy has employed more than 500 companies and employees of contractors to restore electricity. Utility encourages customers that:

• Visit the Outage Center or download Consumers Energy App to report the outage and monitor the progress of restoration.

• Keep the emergency kit ready with flashlight, battery, food, water, medicines and pet supplies.

• Unplug sensitive electronic devices to avoid damage during restoring power.

The company also said that once the area is secure, the trees arising from restoration activities will be the responsibility of the cleaning property owners.

Release coverage

13 on your Side Weather Impact Team is providing live updates through air and 13+ streaming service. Resident can download 13OYS app for real-time season and news alerts. Stay for further updates while continuing to clean and restoration efforts.

How to help or get help

• Report the outage: Contact the Consumers Energy or Use the online Outage Center at 800-477-5050.

• Be informed: Follow 13 on your Side on Facebook, Twitter or download the 13OYS app for the latest updates.

• Community Assistance: Avoid affected areas to assist in emergency response efforts and ensure the safety of the crew.