Storms packing heavy rains leave 65,000 in Michigan without power

More than 65,000 homes and businesses across southern Michigan had no power Saturday after a line of severe thunderstorms packing heavy rains raked the region, utilities reported.

DTE Energy reported more than 40,000 customers without electricity in southeastern Michigan, Consumers Energy reported nearly 15,000 affected customers, and Indiana Michigan Power Co. reported more than 10,000 customers in the dark.

The Detroit News reported several freeways were closed Saturday morning due to flooding from overnight thunderstorms. The affected highways included portions of Interstate 75 and I-94 in the Detroit area

Consumers Energy warned of lingering dangers after storms have passed.

“Be on the lookout for downed wires and make sure you stay away from them. Assume that they are electric lines and that they are energized and make sure you report them to Consumers Energy or call 911,” utility spokesman Terry Dedoes said.

The National Weather Service reported the Stockbridge area in Ingham County received 3.72 inches (9.45 centimeters) of rain.