Lake Erie waters are pictured on Wednesday afternoon during high wind gusts. Photo by Braden Carmen

A high wind watch is in effect for tonight through Saturday evening in Chautauqua and southern Erie counties.

The National Weather Service in Buffalo expects South winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 55 mph possible tonight along the Lake Erie shoreline, then west 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph possible Saturday.

Impacts of the damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

In addition, winds may impact the Christmas parade that takes place in Jamestown on Saturday evening at 6.

The wind event will be the second of the week. On Wednesday, wind gusts reaching speeds of 60 mph at the Dunkirk Airport were recorded around 4:34 a.m. and 52 mph in Fredonia at 4:20 a.m.