Damaging winds expected.

MCP file photo.

Damaging winds and thunderstorms are expected across much of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula beginning Wednesday evening, Dec. 23, until Thursday morning, Dec. 24. Some wind gusts may exceed 50 mph.

Consumers Energy employees are preparing for an increase in power outages due to storm activity.

To help the public prepare for what to do before, during and after a storm, the public is encouraged to visit ConsumersEnergy.com/outagecenter for helpful tips. At this location, the public can visit the online outage map for updates; report an outage; and get other useful information. Customers can also call Consumers Energy at 1-800-477-5050 to report a power outage.

In addition, Consumers Energy residential and business customers now can sign up to receive outage alerts. Residential customers can visit Consumers Energy’s new website to set their alert preferences. Business customers can sign up for text alerts by texting REG to 232273 (CECARE) and providing their account number when prompted.