Amid frigid temperatures and continuing falling snow, Indiana Michigan Power is making progress restoring customer’s heat and lights after a winter storm.

I&M has restored power to more than 2/3 of customers impacted from the winter storm in the southwest Michigan and north central Indiana region.

As of 1 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5, less than 3,500 customers remain without service.

A team of approximately 300 I&M employees, including lineworkers, damage assessors, tree trimming experts and various support staff, are working safely and quickly to restore power. So far, crews have discovered 20 broken or damaged poles and 39 individual spans of downed wires due to 70 mph winds.

I&M crews are safely working long hours in blowing snow and cold temperatures, and often navigating slushy or snow-covered roads. For safety reasons, if winds exceed 35 mph workers can not operate bucket trucks. You may see crews sitting in vehicles staying warm and hydrated while awaiting materials or additional assistance. I&M appreciates our customers patience while we work safely to restore power.

ETRs are when I&M expects to have 90% or more customers restored.

Southwest Michigan Total 3,343

Buchanan Area 736 8 p.m.

Benton Harbor Area 2,607 10 p.m.

Northern Indiana Total 74