Over 14,000 outages reported across Michigan after overnight storms, tornado

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Over 14,000 houses and businesses are without power Wednesday, Feb. 28, after overnight storms that included a tornado that touched down in Grand Blanc.

Consumers Energy reported 12,610 outages as a 6:30 a.m. DTE Energy reported 1,556 outages in southeast Michigan.

Among the hardest hit areas are: Oakland County, with 5,040 outages, followed by the counties of Genesse, 2,569; Shiawassee, 1,426, Calhoun County, 1,186; Monroe, 730, Missaukee, 603; St. Clair County, 525; and Kent, 387.

RELATED:Tornado damages homes, ruptures gas lines as rare February storm hits Michigan

The storm brought winds, lightning and hail. The National Weather Service is expected to view damage from the tornado in Grand Blanc where widespread outages were reported.

After temperatures in the mid-70s on Tuesday, cold and snow are returning. The National Weather Service in Grand Rapids said morning rain will turn to snow this afternoon, leaving some roads slippery. Light snow is expected with highest amounts near the lakeshore.

The National Weather Service in Detroit/Pontiac said high winds – 20 to 30 mph, with 45-mph gusts – are expected Wednesday.