Why Michigan’s Governor Wants All Thermostats At 65 Degrees

MICHIGAN — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer released the following statement in response to Consumers Energy calling for all customers to voluntarily reduce their gas usage as a result of an unexpected gas incident in Southeast Michigan.

“I’m coming to you now to ask for your help," Whitmer said. "Due to extremely high demand for natural gas with these record low temperatures and a facility incident, Consumers Energy has asked that everyone who is able to turn down their thermostats through Friday at noon so we can all get through this with minimal harm.”

The governor has asked for Michiganders to turn their thermostats down to 65 degrees or lower and to tell neighbors and loved ones to do the same.

"You can play a role in helping people across the state survive these extreme temperatures,” she said. “Please do. We’re calling on every Michigander to do your part and help us weather this storm together.”

Michigan is currently experiencing wind chills at 35 degrees below zero. Click here for the full wind chill warning.

A fire Wednesday in northern Macomb County disrupted Michigan's natural gas flow and around the state officials are trying to keep utilization down.

General Motors is closing several plants on Thursday including Orion Assembly, Pontiac Stamping, Flint Stamping, Flint Engine, Flint Tool Die, and Lansing Delta Township Assembly, Lansing Grand River Assembly, Lansing Regional Stamping, Lansing Grand River Stamping, Warren Transmission and the Warren Tech Center, WDIV reported.

Fiat Chrysler is canceling shifts at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant and the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant.

For more information or tips, visit: www.consumersenergy.com/coldweather

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