(2/22/2019) - Consumers Energy is planning ahead for the prospect of widespread power outages caused by high winds this weekend.
The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Watch for all of Mid-Michigan along and south of U.S. 10 for Sunday. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect north and west of Mid-Michigan for Saturday afternoon through Sunday.
The system is known as a "bomb cyclone" caused by a rapidly deepening low pressure system dropping more than 24 millibars in 24 hours.
RELATED: 'Bomb cyclone' could bring 60 mph wind gusts to Mid-Michigan this weekend
An area of low pressure will move from the Plains over Michigan late Saturday and Sunday. As it moves toward Mid-Michigan, the system will strengthen rapidly and kick up high winds.
All of Lower Michigan will see winds gusting up to 60 mph on Sunday, which likely will knock down trees and power lines. With winds coming out of the west, any high profile vehicles traveling north or south -- especially on I-75 and U.S. 23 -- could have trouble.
Areas under the Winter Storm Watch will receive 1 to 3 inches of snow blown around by the high winds. A flash freeze will occur around midday on Sunday, so any roadways that are wet or snow covered will get icy in a hurry.
Temperatures will fall into the 20s on Sunday across Michigan, so places that lose power could get cold in a hurry.
Consumers Energy is mobilizing its power restoration resources and preparing to repair downed lines.
The Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division is warning residents to prepare for widespread and lengthy power outages.
“The length of a power outage can never be predicted,” said Capt. Emmitt McGowan, who is commander of the division. “Taking a few steps to prepare ahead of a power outage can minimize loss and keep all members of your household as comfortable as possible.”
State police offered the following tips to prepare:
-- Fill plastic containers with water and place them in the refrigerator and freezer. Cold water bottles will help keep food cold during a power outage and can also be used for drinking water.
-- Find out how long any refrigerated medication is safe without power.
-- Make plans to care for family members with disabilities or illnesses with no power.
-- Fill up gas tanks at least half full, because gas stations may be closed if the power goes out.
-- Have some cash available, because ATMs may not work with no electricity.
-- Have a house key handy, because garage doors won't go up when the power is out.
-- Keep a stash of nonperishable food that doesn't require heat to prepare.
-- Have a large flashlight or emergency lighting and extra batteries available.
-- Have some warm clothes and blankets at the ready.