Thousands without power in Erie, Niagara Counties

Several thousand people are without power leading into the weekend.

As of 10pm, National Grid reports about 15,000 customers in Erie County and about 10,800 customers in Niagara County are without power.

A spokesperson tells 7 Eyewitness News the outages are due to a problem with a transmission line, in part because of the high winds.

Restoration work is ongoing and some are already back on, according to the spokesperson.

National Grid's website lists restoration in some areas to be around 6pm Saturday, however, estimated restoration times vary.

Statement from National Grid spokesperson:

"Due to the widespread nature of the damage from this high wind event, we will not be able to complete all restorations this evening. Crews will be working around the clock and customers are encouraged to check our website for updated restoration estimates."

Amherst Police are reminding neighbors to use caution while driving overnight as many intersections are without traffic control. Police also remind those using home generators to keep them outside of their residence in a well ventilated area.