SAULT STE. MARIE — Chippewa County officials have expressed their gratitude over agencies and residents pulling together during the recent storm.

According to a news release from the Chippewa County Board of Commissioners, county residents had begun to see their power disrupted beginning Sunday evening due to an accumulation of sleet, ice and freezing rain in the area. By late Monday, Cloverland Electric Cooperative reported nearly 14,500 of its customers were without power, with about 10,000 customers in Chippewa County alone.

Many communities initiated emergency plans for warming centers, said Michelle Robbins, Chippewa County emergency manager.

Cloverland and Chippewa County Road Commission crews, along with local first responders, fought against trees and lines weighted down with ice and freshly fallen snow on Monday.

The cooperative also coordinated with other electric companies for mutual aid. Local hotels offered discounts to residents with no power, and schools offered their campuses for internet use and shower facilities.

The board of commissioners thanked the various agencies and volunteers who coordinated their efforts to serve the community.