By AP
GRAND RAPIDS, MI –
At least 26,500 homes and businesses across Michigan's Lower Peninsula have lost power as severe storms and powerful winds barrel across the state.
Consumers Energy reports 14,500 outages Tuesday afternoon, many in western Michigan. DTE Energy Co. says 12,000 customers have lost electricity in the Detroit area.
Michigan remains under a high wind advisory with gusts expected to reach up to 60 miles per hour.
The Grand Rapids Press reports several school closings due to a tornado watch. Afternoon classes in some central Michigan districts were canceled.
Winds have topped 35 mph on the Mackinac Bridge, which links Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas. Traffic has continued to cross, with escorts for large trucks, school buses and vehicles towing trailers.