News & Fun in Michigan
The 2024 State of the Great Lakes Report emphasizes Michigan’s shared responsibility in protecting vital water resources. It highlights economic significance, ongoing challenges like pollution and invasive species, and outlines key initiatives, including combating harmful algal blooms and restoring iconic species, while fostering collective action and environmental justice.
Michigan has a total of 1,032 operational turbines producing 1,881 MW. Plans underway show 1,084 turbines with 2,161 MW operational in 2018. Michigan produced 4.6% of its electricity needs from industrial wind operations in 2016. Michigan’s Upper Thumb currently has 472 operating wind turbines in 2018. Huron county has the largest installed wind energy base in the Great Lakes region.
Stellantis is investing an additional $3.3 million in home repair grants for Detroit residents near its Mack plant, increasing total funding to over $5 million since 2019. The program aims to support community needs and foster long-term revitalization in the area, with applications opening in January 2025.
Michigan faces variable weather conditions with lake-effect snow in the north and rain in the south. Accumulations range from 1 to 8 inches across different regions, with warnings for slick roads and reduced visibility. Residents are advised to stay informed and exercise caution.
On December 7, 2024, Minnesota’s weather varies significantly. Duluth will see mild temperatures and light rain, while Grand Forks faces chilly conditions and possible light snow. The Twin Cities experience dry, mild weather. Residents are advised to stay updated on weather changes from local sources.
Michigan is currently facing severe winter storms, resulting in heavy snow, strong winds, and hazardous travel conditions. Southeast Michigan will experience light snow and frigid temperatures, while the Upper Peninsula is under heavy snow bands with low visibility, prompting travel warnings and advisories from the National Weather Service.
Michigan is experiencing hazardous weather conditions with cold temperatures and significant lake effect snow. Areas, particularly in the snowbelt regions, are facing travel difficulties due to heavy snowfall and strong winds, with wind chills dropping below zero. Some respite from the harsh cold is anticipated this weekend.
Consumers Energy is enhancing grid reliability in Michigan using Automated Transfer Reclosers (ATRs), which help prevent outages for over 72,000 customers. In 2024, ATRs reduced potential downtime by 350,000 hours, aligning with the company’s goal to improve service frequency and restoration times amid severe weather challenges.
