Severe Thunderstorms Leave 115,000 Without Power in Metro Detroit
Severe thunderstorms swept through Metro Detroit overnight into Wednesday, causing widespread power outages and significant damage. According to DTE Energy, over 115,000 customers were left without electricity as of Thursday afternoon, with restoration efforts expected to reach 80% completion by the end of the day. The storms brought wind gusts of up to 70 mph in Howell and 51 mph at Detroit City Airport, toppling trees and downing power lines. Additional disruptions included flooding on eastbound I-94 near Gratiot Avenue, flight delays at Detroit Metro Airport, and damage to local infrastructure, such as a tent at Campus Martius in Detroit. DTE deployed over 2,600 personnel, including 400 out-of-state lineworkers, to expedite restoration efforts. This event follows a pattern of severe weather in Michigan, including a July 3 storm that left 168,000 customers without power for extended periods.