The gales of November blew across Western New York Friday. Winds today were in the 30-40 mph range, with a peak gust of 61 mph. Meteorologist Aaron Reynolds says the strong winds have already caused minor damage across the area.
"We've had some reports of trees and wires across roads and some power outages with it," Reynolds said.
A downed tree crushed two cars on Prospect Avenue in Buffalo. But there were other reports of damage from fallen tree limbs in many parts of the region.
Utility companies report several thousands of customers were without power.
As of 9pm Friday, 500 National Grid customers were without power in the immediate Buffalo area. Most service was expected to be restored by the end of the night, though an isolated few might have to wait until Saturday morning.
"Crews can only work for so long and still be safe," said National Grid spokesman Steve Brady.
New York State Electric and Gas said at noon, 2,600 of its customers in Erie County and 440 in Niagara Counter were without service. As of 9 p.m., those numbers were down to 59 and 66, respectively.
NYSEG spokesman Dick Marion said 12 wires were on the ground and eight poles were broken as of Friday afternoon.
Some of the coldest weather of the season is heading into Western New York. Highs Sunday for the Bills game at Ralph Wilson Stadium will be in the 30s so fans will need to bundle up for the first time.