We Energies asking customers to report power lines and poles down

WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- We Energies crews have restored power to more than 44,000 customers following thunderstorms that moved through the Fox Valley earlier in the weekend.

Over 200 employees are currently on the ground along with utility crews from neighboring states to assist We Energies with clearing downed wires, poles and trees so that restoration can begin.

There are currently over 700 wires down, 50 power poles snapped and broken, and over 600 trees or branches that have fallen onto We Energies equipment.

Throughout the night, crews have patrolled the main lines to clear hazards.

We Energies has also been responding to fire and police calls for downed lines and trees to ensure the public’s safety.

Once these hazards are clear, We Energies will start to repair and restore power. They ask that you stay at least 25 feet from power lines that are down and anything that is touching them. We Energies continues to ask for your help by reporting power lines and poles that are down to 800-662-4797, wait times may be longer than normal.

"We know that being without power is frustrating, so appreciate your patience as we continue to address these issues," We Energies said in a release.

Stay with CBS 58 News for more information on this developing story.