Indiana Michigan Power crews prepare for powerful storm in Michiana

Indiana Michigan Power has more than 100 mutual assistance personnel on standby in preparation for a powerful storm expected to hit Southwest Michigan, South Bend, Elkhart and northern Fort Wayne on Friday.

Freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong wind are expected to carry into the overnight hours Friday.

Updates on power outages can be monitored on I&M's website and mobile app.

As a reminder, residents should pay attention to a number of safety precautions:

• Downed power lines - Stay away from any downed lines and report them to I&M by calling 911 or 1-800-311-4634.
• Be careful around debris and fences - Fallen limbs and other debris can hide downed power lines and lines could be contacting a fence out of sight. Look around carefully. Trees could also fall or drop limbs at any moment.
• Vehicle crashes are often a cause of power outages, especially ice-covered roads - Please avoid driving until road conditions improve.
• Traffic lights may not be operating - Please use caution and watch out for first responders and utility workers on the road.