Thousands Without Power In MI As Severe Heat, Storms Forecast

MICHIGAN — More than 230,000 people are without power in Michigan after severe thunderstorms hit the state Tuesday night.

As of 9:15 a.m., 233,241 people were without power Wednesday, according to poweroutage.us, which tracks power outages across the country. In the metro Detroit area, Wayne and Macomb counties have the highest concentration of power outages.

More severe weather is forecast to hit the state Wednesday. A heat advisory is in effect from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. Wednesday for Livingston, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Wayne, Lenawee and Monroe counties.

The heat index is expected to rise to near 100 degrees Wednesday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.

Here's how the NWS advises people to stay prepared:

• Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
• Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.
• Check on the elderly, sick and those without air conditioning.

Following the severe heat, strong to severe storms will potentially develop later in the evening and overnight. The weather service says the best chance for storms is between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m.

The storms could produce wind gusts of up to 60 mph, large hail and isolated tornadoes.