Wind storm closes roads, knocks out power throughout Leelanau County
Kathi Flaska Thoreson took this photo of a fallen spruce tree near her Cedar home.
From staff reports
Story updated continuously.
Leelanau County Road Commission manager Brendan Mullane shared on Friday midday that the following roads have reopened: CR-641 (near Fountain Point Resort), CR-677 (Benzonia Trail), Herman Road west of Suttons Bay, M-22 at Putnam Rd.
The last road that remains closed is CR-616 between M-22 and CR-675 (Inspiration Point).
Stay tuned for updates today.
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Mullane told the Sun Thursday that “every half hour or so” first responders were receiving new reports of a tree down and a road closed—as the winds continue to blow today and tonight. If it’s just a tree, the Fire Departments can clear it. But Mullane emphasizes that barricades mean power lines are down. “Don’t be tempted to drive through. It’s very dangerous if power lines are down,” he said.
Major road closures include: CR-641 near O’Brien Road (near Fountain Point Resort); Herman Road, west of Suttons Bay; CR-677 closed at M-22 by the Glen Lake Narrows, and CR-616 between M-22 and CR-675 (Inspiration Point).
The Leelanau County Sheriff’s Department reports on its Facebook page that multiple roads are closed throughout the County as high winds have caused treacherous driving conditions. Deputies and area fire departments are responding to continuous reports of trees down across the roadways, power lines down and vehicle accidents. There are multiple roads currently closed due to these factors. If you do not need to travel, it is best to stay off the roadways. If you must go out, please do so with an abundance of caution.
Undersheriff James Kiessel told the Glen Arbor Sun at 11:30 a.m. that almost all main roads are open, but lots of secondary roads still have tree issues. The Road Commission is busy tending to main county roads. If people are aware of power lines down, Kiessel encourages them to call dispatch to notify the Sheriff’s Department. First responders are working from an ongoing list on a priority basis.
The Sheriff’s Department reports there have been about half a dozen car accidents, including cars running into trees and debris. There have been no serious injuries: all accidents are minor in nature.
The Glen Lake Fire Department (GLFD) reported this morning that winds are severe in Leelanau County but specifically the Glen Arbor/Empire area. All GLFD personnel are out handling downed power lines and trees. Consumer’s Energy has been notified but they’re even busier so please be patient. Currently active downed power lines: Stormer Rd-Macfarlane Rd-Dune Hwy (M-109)-Benzonia Trail-Leelanau Hwy (M-22) and Fredrickson Rd-Fritz Rd
Consumers Energy reported this morning that winds over 60 miles an hour swept into Michigan overnight knocking out power to more than 113,000 customers. Crews are already assessing the damage and preparing for restoration once it’s safe. In addition to power outages, the high winds may cause objects to take flight. If you can safely do so, make sure your outside furniture or play structures are secure.
