Upper Peninsula Power Company urges customers to prepare for winter storm conditions. UPPCO has issued a reminder to customers in the Upper Peninsula that late winter storm patterns can and often produce high winds and accumulations of heavy and wet snow. These weather factors can impact electric grid performance.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for most of the region beginning this evening, until Thursday. The weather service predicts that the area will see high winds with gusts up to 55 miles per hour and accumulation ranging from 4 to 9 inches of heavy wet snow.
UPPCO Vice President of Business Development and Communications Brett French says that predicted weather conditions can produce power outages as the system moves across the region. UPPCO crews are prepared to service power outages, and downed lines or blown transformers. French adds that residents should be mindful of using portable generators safely when in use. He says that the utility company does provide resources for what to do when the power goes out on its website. People should not approach a downed wire because it can remain energized which can cause serious injury or even death if come into contact. Nor should individuals come into contact with tree limbs or branches leaning on power lines due to potential injury from falling debris.
To report a power outage in your area, contact UPPCO Customer Care Center at 906 449 2011 or online, www.uppco.com.