Severe weather hits downtown Buffalo

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) – Downtown Buffalo was hit by severe weather Monday afternoon that ripped the roof off a building and closed a section of Niagara Street due to downed trees and power lines.

Videos and images posted on social media -- as well as video captured by News 4's Tower Cam -- showed showed a potential funnel cloud and rotational storms blowing through a portion of the City's West Side and downtown areas. Officially, the National Weather Service has not confirmed any tornadoes in the area, and no Tornado Warnings were issued.

No injuries were reported as of 1:45 p.m., Buffalo Police said. Roughly 1,000 customers are without power in the downtown area. Buffalo Public Schools said Hutchinson Central Technical High School sustained minor damage in the storm.

Residents are urged to avoid any downed power lines they encounter.

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning and Special Marine Warning was put in place earlier Monday. High winds and large hail were expected to be the biggest threats. A Flood Watch is also in effect.

Our Tower Cam captured a potential funnel cloud in the area at approximately 12:50 p.m.

This is a breaking news story, check back for updates.