(WBEN) Western New York awoke to the thunderous sound of dangerous winds as peak gusts and rising lake water caused major problems across the region.
The winds, gusting to 69 miles per hour at one point, have brought down trees which have caused arcing wires and power outages.
The winds were blamed for the partial collapse of the historic Williams Opera House in the Wyoming County village of Attica early Sunday.
A large section of the opera house's brick rear wall collapsed around 6:30 a.m., causing part of the second floor to collapse, according to Attica police.
The building was constructed in 1879 and is part of the national Exchange Street Historic District in Attica.
High winds were generated by a cold front sweeping spring-like weather out of the region. Gusts brought down tree branches that knocked out power to about 38,000 people in upstate New York early Sunday. Those numbers decreased drastically thtoughout the day Sunday as crews from both utilities were able to make repairs.
About 20 trees were affected during the storm in the city of Buffalo, some whole trees others branches or limbs. And about a dozen traffic signals affected were either completely out or flashing.
Power crews were ready to restore service, but NYSEG officials say, "The first step in the restoration process is for crews to make conditions safe for the public and clear any downed wires or trees that pose an immediate threat to public safety. After that, damage assessors will coordinate resources and begin restoration efforts as quickly and safely as possible. "
As a result of the winds and periodic power outages, there were a number of delays reported at Buffalo Niagara International Airport.
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