Wind Advisory Issued for Southeast Michigan, Power Outages Possible Due to Hurricane Sandy

As high winds pick up in southeast Michigan due to the reach of Hurricane Sandy, so will the likelihood for power outages and other wind-related issues.

More: What will Hurricane Sandy mean for Michigan weather this week?

The National Weather Service issued a wind advisory Monday morning for all of southern Michigan, including Midland, Bay, Lenawee, Saginaw, Tuscola, Shiawassee, Genesee, Lapeer, Livingston, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw and Wayne counties. The advisory is in effect until 5 p.m. Tuesday.

Winds are expected to reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour, and could cause hazardous situations—including power outages, downed tree branches, and difficulty driving, especially on east-west roads.

Wyandotte Mayor Joe Peterson said Monday night that Wyandotte Municipal Services is prepared to quickly deal with any potential power outages in the city.

Peterson said extra workers from the Transmission & Distribution department of municipal services would be available, and would react immediately, should there be any outages.

“If the power goes out, these guys have a plan that they’re working on,” Peterson said.

On Sunday the department was able to restore power within two hours, following an outage caused by a damaged electrical pole. That quick reaction time is evidence of how well the department, which is headed by superintendent Rod Lesko, is typically prepared, Peterson said.

Should any parts of Wyandotte lose power for a long period of time, Peterson said the Copeland Center has a backup generator and the building will be open for those who need electricity.

To prepare for high winds, Michigan residents are encouraged to use precaution while driving—especially high-profile vehicles. Additionally, residents are encouraged to move trash cans, lawn furniture, Halloween decorations and other outdoor items into their garage or home.