PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Thunderstorms are battering parts of New England, downing trees and causing power outages for thousands in Maine.

The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm watch through Saturday evening for counties in southern Maine and southern and central New Hampshire. Earlier in the day, there was a severe storm warning for parts of western Massachusetts.

Central Maine Power says nearly 11,000 people are without power on Saturday, with York and Lincoln counties particularly affected.

Lightning strikes downed trees in some areas in Maine, and heavy rains slowed traffic.