Widespread power outages are reported
MARQUETTE COUNTY -- UPDATE 2:30 p.m.
According to the Marquette Board of Light and Power Superintendant David Lynch a couple thousand customers are still without power.
Lynch said this is the worst he has seen in 25 years, with around 10,000 people without power during the outage's peak.
Marquette, Skandia, Negaunee and Chocolay Townships along with Shiras Hills are still affected.
So far, around 8,000 customers have had power restored, according to Lynch. Two-thirds of the system was down at one time.
UPDATE 9 a.m.
The City of Marquette has closed the road leading to Mount Marquette and the road around Presque Isle Park for storm debris cleanup. Both closures are in effect into early next week.
UPDATE: 6:45 a.m.
UPPCO reports that they have made great progress overnight to restore power to UPPCO customers. They plan to assess damages during the daylight hours.
Again, UPPCO officials would like to remind people not to touch downed wires as they may be active. Also, they request you stay clear of crews out working as this is a dangerous area they are in.
UPDATE: 3:24 a.m. Friday September 30, 2011
Many power outages and storm damage is being reported around the Upper Peninsula. Work crews are out trying to get power restored.
Officials warn of downed power lines and they must all be treated as live wire, so do not touch them.
To see the latest grid of power outages, click here.
UPDATE: 10:39 p.m.
UPPCO reports more than 10,600 customers are without power across Upper Michigan. The City of Marquette also has scattered outages.
Utility crews continue to work through the night to clear trees from roads and repair power lines.
High winds caused a layer of bricks to collapse at the Pioneer Square Mall in Ishpeming. It's also known as the old Gossard building. The bricks fell on top of a pickup truck and crushed its cab. No one was injured.
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A powerful wind storm barreled into Upper Michigan Thursday evening. Strong winds have knocked down numerous trees and power lines.
Much of the City of Marquette is without power. Crews are working to clear trees and restore power.
Scattered outages are reported across the U.P.
Marquette City Police are warning drivers to stay off the roads if possible. The downed trees and power lines are creating hazardous conditions.
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