Warming centers open after hundreds lose natural gas service

CHIKAMING TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) - Warming centers have been set up in southwestern Michigan after hundreds of people lost natural gas service to their homes amid bitterly cold temperatures.

Authorities in Berrien County say a natural gas leak led to the shutdown Wednesday in Chikaming Township. Crews worked Thursday to restore service. On Thursday morning, the National Weather Service says it was 5 degrees below zero in nearby Benton Harbor.

SEMCO Energy says about 680 customers lost service, leaving them without heat. As of midmorning, service has been restored to about 430 customers and crews are working to get into other homes. Warming centers are at Chikaming Elementary School and River Valley High School.

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Online:

http://www.semcoenergygas.com