SYRACUSE (AP) -- Authorities say fierce winds ripping through upstate New York have blown down trees and power lines, left thousands without electricity and triggered a house fire in Utica.

There are no reports of any serious injuries as wind gusts of 50 to 60 mph Thursday were reported throughout central and eastern New York.

The National Weather Service is issuing a wind advisory warning through the evening.

About 16,000 people were without power, including about 5,400 in Oneida County and 4,200 in Rensselaer County. National Grid expected to have power restored to all customers Friday.

Fire officials in Utica said the high winds snapped a branch that brought down power lines on top of a house, setting it on fire. Homeowner Barbara Remmell escaped uninjured.

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