A recent ice storm caused extensive damage in Michigan and Wisconsin, resulting in fallen trees and power lines, leaving thousands without electricity in the upper Great Lakes region. At the same time, forecasters warned of severe weather approaching Tennessee. Wind gusts of up to 70 mph could hit central Tennessee, with the possibility of tornadoes and large hail up to 2 inches on Sunday night, according to the National Weather Service.
In response to the situation, authorities advised people to have a safe place ready as a precaution. Over 400,000 power outages were reported in Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin, prompting the conversion of churches, schools, and fire halls into temporary warming centers while utility crews worked tirelessly to restore power. The restoration efforts are expected to continue into Monday, especially in rural areas.
The Weather Service office in Gaylord, Michigan, shared that ice accumulations ranged from half an inch to nearly a whole inch, causing significant disruptions. Despite the season being spring, the wintry conditions persisted, as noted by Ryan Brege, managing director of the Alpena County Road Commission in Michigan.
With power outages affecting the region, many churches in Wisconsin and Michigan had to cancel their Sunday services. Families like Jesika Fox’s had to venture out to find fuel for generators to stay warm after losing power. Meanwhile, emergency services manager Sarah Melching reported that almost the entire population of Presque Isle County, approximately 13,200 people, was without power due to ongoing tree falls and hazardous conditions.
In a separate incident, authorities in South Carolina provided updates on wildfires in the Blue Ridge mountains, with progress being made in containing the Table Rock and Persimmon Ridge fires that burned about 17 square miles. Mandatory evacuations were enforced in Greenville County as a precaution.
Derrick Moore, operations chief for the firefighting Southern Area Blue Team, expressed gratitude for the support and prayers received, mentioning the promising sign of rainfall in the area.
