Utilities brace for possibility of freezing rain Friday

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Consumers Energy is preparing for potential ice storms after Christmas.

A system moving into the area Friday morning could cause up to half an inch of ice accumulation in some locations. Consumers spokesperson Megan Kirk says they’re making plans to keep everyone safe.

Really, we always want to focus on, number one, the safety of not only our customers, but of our staff and our crews,” Kirk said. “So we are looking to make sure that each of those 500 crew members are in place to respond to any sorts of issues or situations that may emerge.”

The National Weather Service says the freezing rain will move into Southwest Michigan first on Friday, but temperatures will rise as the day goes on and the ice will melt.

If you see a downed power line, call both Consumers Energy and 911. The utility also urges everyone to pay attention to travel advisories and winter weather watches and warnings.