(Marquette, MI) MBLP Outage Update – 5:00pm 

Restoration efforts remain ongoing across our service territory as crews continue working to restore power following the severe winter weather. High winds, whiteout conditions, and access challenges caused by heavy snowfall are making restoration efforts difficult in many areas. 

Field crews have been working to assess damage and restore service when and where it can be done safely. Near-record snow has made reaching certain locations challenging, particularly in rural areas and along lines that are not easily accessible from the roadside. 

While this storm shares similarities with past winter weather events, every storm and restoration effort presents unique challenges. High winds and trees contacting utility lines continue to be one of the primary causes of outages. Fortunately, the lighter snow has helped reduce the amount of tree limbs weighing down lines, which can occur during heavier, wetter snowfall. 

Safety remains the top priority throughout restoration efforts. The safety of the community, as well as our line workers and employees, is always at the forefront of the decisions made during storm restoration efforts. Crews continue to work as conditions allow and will remain focused on restoring service safely. 

At this time, it is difficult to determine exactly what conditions overnight may bring or precisely when all outages will be restored. Restoration efforts will continue as conditions allow, and until every affected customer has power restored. However, ongoing high winds and near-record snowfall are creating access challenges, making it possible that some customers may not have service restored until tomorrow. 

Customers are reminded to stay clear of any downed utility lines. If you encounter a downed line, never approach the line or the surrounding area. A utility line can remain energized without showing any visible signs. Stay back and call 911 as soon as possible. 

At this time, the next update is expected to be shared tomorrow morning, unless conditions significantly change.