Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) crews have restored power to more than 50,000 customers affected by Wednesday’s spring storm. Heavy, wet snow and accumulating ice have caused outages across northern Wisconsin. Some of the areas most affected by the outages include communities around the Minocqua, Rhinelander, Wausaukee and Wabeno areas.

WPS crews are seeing significant damage, including several downed power lines and extensive tree damage. The accumulating snow and ice has continued to cause outages into Wednesday evening.

Crews are continuing to work around the clock to make repairs and restore power to customers as quickly and safely as possible. Additional outside crews also are assisting WPS in repairing these outages.

Customers without power can help WPS by reporting their outage through:

  • The WPS app.
  • The WPS website.
  • The company’s electric outage line, which is 800-450-7240.

Customers who come across a downed power line are urged to stay at least 25 feet away. Report downed power lines to WPS or a local law enforcement agency. Customers also are reminded to clear any buildup of snow and ice from natural gas meters and appliance vents.