HAZARDOUS WIND UPDATE: Flight Cancellations, Outages

Updated at 1:40 p.m.

Some 13,000 DTE Energy customers are now without power, dozens of flights — especially those coming from or going to Chicago — have been delayed or canceled at the Detroit Metro Airport, and meteorologists are warning Metro Detroit residents of other dangers associated with a cold front sweeping across the Central Plains.

Though some flights have been grounded, the Detroit Metro Airport’s status is listed as “green” with the Federal Aviation Administration, meaning that flights are arriving and departing within 15 minutes or less of their scheduled times.

Airport spokesman Brian Lassaline told the Detroit Free Press “things are looking pretty good,” but it’s a good idea for travelers to check with airlines for the most up-to-date information.

Resources You Need

• Check the DTE Energy outages here.
• Report a DTE Energy outage here or call (800) 477-4747.
• Check the Consumers Energy outages here.
• Report a Consumers Energy outage here or call (800) 477-5050.
• Check the status of your flight here.

Wind gusts of more than 50 mph have been recorded, and the National Weather Service says gusts up to 60 mph could be typical. A high-wind warning remains in effect through 10 p.m. Thursday.

Tree damage and more downed power lines are likely, officials said. Waves on Lake Michigan could peak at 15 feet, and dangerous conditions are also expected on Lake Huron.

Boating is not advised, and neither is driving, especially on north-south highways. High-profile vehicles are most vulnerable.

Drivers who have to be on the highway should be aware of the potential for blowing debris, such as trash cans, and be prepared for sudden gusts of wind, Rachel Kulik, a National Weather Service meteorologist told the Free Press.

Patch’s Earlier Report

About 3,500 Metro Detroit residents are without power, DTE Energy said, and a high-wind warning remains in effect through 10 p.m. Thursday night, according to the National Weather Service.

Check the outages here.

In its hazardous weather statement, the NWS said southwesterly winds will strengthen through the morning hours as a cold front moves through the area.

Wind gusts will increase from 25 to 50 mph through the evening hours, with periods of stronger winds reaching 50 to 60 mph through 10 p.m. Thursday and again between 3-10 p.m.

Multiple hours of 50 to 60 mph wind gusts could result in considerable tree and power line damage, and driving will become dangerous, especially for high profile vehicles along north to south roadways.

Structural damage is also possible.

» Photo: Michael Mol via Flickr