Severe Nor’easter Hits Northeast: Floods, Power Outages, and Travel Disruptions

Millions of residents in the Northeast, including New York City and Boston, are contending with hazardous flooding, strong winds, and heavy rain. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a warning as a powerful nor’easter began impacting the region this weekend.

The storm has already led to casualties and power disruptions. A 56-year-old man in Brooklyn tragically died due to a falling tree. Over 100,000 households in areas like New Jersey, Massachusetts, Delaware, and New York experienced power outages, according to PowerOutage reports.

Numerous events have been canceled, including New York City’s Global Citizens Festival and Ed Sheeran’s concert at Massachusetts’ Gillette Stadium. Flight operations have also been affected, with more than 450 flights canceled and 3,000 delayed.

Nor’easter’s Peak Impact

Forecasters predicted that the storm’s conditions would peak between Saturday and early Sunday. However, they caution that strong winds, rough surf, and coastal flooding will persist into Monday, with sporadic rain showers.

The most severe impact is expected in the New York City metropolitan area and New Jersey. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the strongest wind gusts and widespread flooding are likely near the waterfront and shorelines of New Jersey, New York City, and Long Island.

Flooding is anticipated during high tide cycles on Saturday and Sunday. It will also affect areas inland from waterfronts along tidal rivers and bays.

State Emergency Responses

By Friday afternoon, New York and New Jersey declared states of emergency. In New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul placed New York City and several counties under a state of emergency, issuing a Coastal Flood Warning for Long Island and nearby areas.

The worst flooding is projected along Long Island’s south shore, as well as parts of lower New York Harbor and coastal sections of the Bronx, Westchester, and northern Nassau County.

In New Jersey, Gov. Mikie Sherrill declared a state of emergency for eight counties facing severe impacts, including Atlantic, Burlington, Cape May, Cumberland, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, and Salem.

Duration and Future Conditions

The updated forecast from the NWS suggests that high tide cycles throughout Sunday afternoon will bring moderate to significant coastal flooding to most local coastlines. Southern and eastern bays of Long Island are at greatest risk.

Additional rainfall of two to four inches is expected across New York City, Long Island, and southern Connecticut. Elsewhere, forecasts predict 1.5 to 3 inches.

Minor urban flooding, poor drainage, and small stream flooding, with possible flash flooding, are likely through Sunday night. The nor’easter is set to weaken gradually by Sunday, yet its effects will persist into Monday, including rain showers, gusty winds, and some coastal flooding.

John Davitt, chief meteorologist for Spectrum News NY1, indicated the storm might not leave the region until Monday night. He highlighted ongoing waves of rain in New York City.

Preparation and Cautions

Governors Sherrill and Hochul urged residents to exercise caution and heed weather warnings. Sherrill advised New Jerseyans to ensure phones are charged, secure outdoor items, stock up on essentials, and avoid travel wherever possible.

Hochul emphasized the importance of alertness and avoiding unnecessary travel in New York.

NOAA recommends people in affected areas prepare with ample food, water, medications, and other necessities for themselves and their pets to weather the storm and aftermath.

Contact Newsweek editors for more information: Ben Kelly and Cristina Diciu.