Storm and Outage Details

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) is monitoring the chance of severe weather this afternoon and evening. Our storm response team is on standby, ready to restore power if outages occur.
• Customers should prepare by charging phones, securing outdoor furniture and enrolling for personalized text and email alerts.

CURRENT SITUATION

A broken line of severe thunderstorms will likely impact all of I&M’s service area this afternoon and into the evening. Heavy rain, lightning and scattered wind gusts of 60-70 mph could cause trees and limbs to topple, falling into power lines or equipment and contributing to power outages. I&M’s storm response team has taken proactive steps to be prepared to support customers if outages occur. Lineworkers, damage assessors and tree-trimming experts will respond as soon as it is safe, and weather conditions allow restoration efforts to begin.

I&M proactively works year-round to improve and upgrade our local electrical system to speed storm restoration. Crews have reduced tree-related outages by nearly 25% over the last four years and installed more than 18,000 new power poles and 268 miles of power lines last year in outage-prone areas to help the system better withstand severe weather.

In the last five years, I&M has reduced customer outages by 50%, and when an outage occurs, restoration time is 55% faster.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

I&M understands that a power outage is never convenient, especially after a storm. Here’s how you can prepare:

• Plan Ahead: I&M customers are encouraged to charge phones and have backup batteries, water, and medications on hand.
• Connect with I&M: Customers should update their I&M account information. Make sure the email address and phone number on file are up to date.
• Sign up for Outage Alerts: The fastest way to get information is through the I&M app and text or email alerts. The app shows outage details for your home or business, and alerts can include estimated restoration times. Customers can download the app and enroll in alerts here.
• Prepare Your Property: Strong winds can toss lawn furniture, umbrellas, and even trampolines across yards—possibly into power lines. Secure any loose objects in your yard. Inside your home, if the power goes out, unplug electronics and appliances to protect them when power is restored.
• Stay Away from Downed Lines: All downed lines should be considered energized and deadly. The power line and anything it could touch, including fences, storm debris, and standing water, can carry electric current that could cause serious or fatal injuries. If you see a fallen wire, keep yourself and others (including pets) away and call local police or I&M immediately at 1-800-311-4634.
• Take It Slow on the Road: Drivers should reduce speed and be on the lookout for utility personnel, emergency responders, and tree removal crews working in the area.
• For more safety tips, visit www.IndianaMichiganPower.com/Weather.