Utility crews were busy in the Village of Bronson, Branch County, on Wednesday evening following a strong storm that swept through the area. Residents of Matteson St. gathered on their porches, sharing their experiences and assessing the damage, which included uprooted trees, downed power lines, smashed windows, and widespread power outages.
Residents described the storm as intense, with one local, Kitty Barker, recounting, “We just heard a big roaring noise when the wind started… It sounded like a train going through.” Although the storm caused considerable disruption, it prompted neighbors to come together and check on one another during the aftermath.
Among those affected were Rick and Judy Zuck, who rely on CPAP machines for breathing assistance. They expressed concern over their lack of electricity, especially since Judy is also dependent on oxygen. After contacting Consumers Energy, they learned that restoring power could take one to two days due to a fallen tree that had damaged a nearby power pole. In an encouraging turn, Rick remembered an emergency generator that had been passed down from his son-in-law. He quickly got it running, providing crucial electricity just as night fell.
Another neighbor, a family from Venezuela who moved to Bronson last year, faced challenges of their own when a fallen tree from a neighboring yard crashed into their fence. The homeowner, using a translator app, expressed his hopes for assistance from the city, highlighting a spirit of community and resilience amidst adversity.
Barkers and others in the neighborhood reflected on past storms, sharing a sense of gratitude that they have come through difficult weather events safely. As crews from Consumers Energy continued their restoration efforts late into the night, there was a collective hope for a quick resolution to the power outage.
While storms like these are undeniably disruptive, they also bring communities together, reminding residents of the strength found in unity and support during challenging times.