As a result of this winter storm, Kent County Emergency Management activated its Emergency Operations Center on Thursday, Feb. 7, and as of 7 p.m. gave updated information via a media release on the current situation because of the significant weather event.
Power Outages:
Kent County residents are continuing to experience unprecedented power outages primarily in the north and east areas of the county. Consumers Energy has reported 112,000 people are still without power and they have 366 crews addressing the current outages.
Emergency Management staff remains in contact with the National Weather Service, Consumers Energy, the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army and several private sector partners.
Emergency Shelter Operations:
Arrangements have been made with the American Red Cross and Salvation Army to address the staffing and operation concerns at four emergency shelters - Ottawa Hills High School, Union High School, Walker Fire Department, and North Rockford Middle School.
The four locations offer free pet boarding by the Kent County Animal Shelter for those with pets. Residents are encouraged to seek other boarding options first, as space at these emergency animal shelters is limited. Please visit www.accesskent.com for complete details on the boarding process.
Dispatch Center:
Call volumes at the Kent County Sheriff’s Office dispatch center are currently stable. Please do not call 911 to report that your power is out or to see when it is coming back on. Visit www.consumersenergy.com for a complete outage map.
Kent County Road Commission:
According to the Kent County Road Commission, most roadways are clear, however many remain snow and ice covered with challenging conditions. Repeat applications of sand/salt deicing mix has been applied to state and primary roads, but the ongoing snowfall and low temps minimize effectiveness. Motorists should call 911 if they encounter an obstruction or emergency while driving.
Please do not report travel emergencies via social media as it may not receive an expedited response.
