On the morning of Thursday, May 15, 2025, more than 24,000 Consumers Energy customers in Genesee County were unexpectedly left without power.
The outage, which disrupted communities in Burton, Grand Blanc, Goodrich, and surrounding areas, was caused by an equipment failure that triggered a cascade of disruptions across multiple substations.
What Caused the Outage?
According to Consumers Energy, the blackout began around 9:11 a.m., with crews later identifying a critical equipment issue on Judd Road in Burton.
This malfunction affected several substations, leading to a widespread loss of power across parts of Genesee County.
While such outages are not uncommon, the speed and scale of the disruption raised concerns among residents and businesses alike. Fortunately, response teams acted swiftly, and full power restoration was achieved by 10:33 a.m., minimizing the potential for prolonged disruption.
Impact on the Community
While the outage was relatively short-lived, its impact was immediate. Local businesses had to halt operations, schools faced temporary communication issues, and residents were left scrambling to manage their morning routines without electricity.
Such incidents highlight the vulnerability of local infrastructure and the importance of preparedness in the face of unpredictable utility failures.
Preparing for Future Power Outages
Though Thursday’s outage was resolved quickly, it serves as a reminder of how critical it is to be prepared. Here are several steps you can take to minimize the impact of future outages:
1. Emergency Supplies
Keep an emergency kit ready with:
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Flashlights and extra batteries
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Bottled water and non-perishable food
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Battery-powered or crank radios
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Portable phone chargers or power banks
2. Backup Power Options
Invest in:
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Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) for sensitive electronics
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Standby generators for homes and businesses
3. Stay Informed
Sign up for outage alerts and monitor the Consumers Energy Outage Map to get real-time updates.
4. Create a Family Emergency Plan
Have a communication plan in place, especially if you live with children, elderly family members, or individuals with medical needs.
Lessons from the May 15 Outage
The Genesee County outage serves as a wake-up call for both the utility provider and local residents. While Consumers Energy responded effectively, the event underlines the need for infrastructure maintenance, community awareness, and personal preparedness.
As climate patterns shift and grid demands increase, sporadic power interruptions may become more frequent.
Staying informed and proactive is key to managing these disruptions efficiently.
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