Providence, R.I. (AP) — A powerful nor’easter has left over 70,000 customers without electricity in the U.S. Northeast, leading to dangerous conditions throughout the weekend. Forecasters predict gale winds capable of toppling trees and heavy rainfall that might flood roads.
Tens of millions of residents are affected as the storm unleashes strong winds and rain across the region. The National Weather Service warns of severe flooding along the Mid-Atlantic coast, particularly in areas near New Jersey and Delaware.
“This storm is expected to bring major coastal flooding to the Mid-Atlantic Coast over multiple high tide cycles through the weekend,” stated the National Weather Service. “Prepare immediately for significant inundation in low-lying areas near the shore, including roads underwater and impacts to homes and businesses.”
Impact on New Jersey
In Surf City, New Jersey, streets are submerged with wave ripples visible on the water surface, affecting some homes. Mayor Mike Mangan of Manasquan, located approximately 34 miles up the coast, anticipates prolonged street flooding.
Concerts and numerous flights have experienced cancellations at airports in Boston, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard. Airlines are offering waivers for some East Coast flight changes or cancellations.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul advises the public to remain cautious due to threats of coastal flooding, heavy rain, strong winds, and waves potentially reaching 20 feet.
“The rain is underway and while it’s only half an inch or so thus far, mark my words: Much more is coming,” the governor stated.
New Jersey’s Preparations
Matty Guarino was seen pulling Crew Guarino on a paddleboard in a flooded area of Surf City after heavy rain battered the Northeast coast.
Sea Bright Mayor Brian Kelly predicts winds up to 50 mph and possibly 6 feet of flooding on some streets. Although annual flooding events occur, Kelly believes this storm may rival the severe flooding caused by Hurricane Irene in 2011.
Hopes are that residents in low-lying areas will consider evacuating. The town plans to open its recreation center for evacuees.
Wind Threats to Coastal New England
Matthew Belk, NWS meteorologist in Norton, Massachusetts, warns of potential peak wind gusts reaching 60 to 65 mph on Cape Cod and nearby islands.
“It’s definitely going to be a case of the closer to the coast you are, the more impacts from the storm you’re likely to see,” Belk noted.
Concerns include trees retaining leaves, increasing wind resistance and risks of downed limbs, power outages, and road debris.
In southeastern Connecticut and eastern Long Island, wind gusts may down tree limbs and power lines.
Disruptions to Travel and Events
Boston Logan International Airport saw 39 flight cancellations Saturday morning. The Red Sox rescheduled their weekend series against the Chicago Cubs, creating a split doubleheader on Friday.
Ed Sheeran’s shows at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, were canceled due to the storm.
Widespread ferry service cancellations occurred between Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard. Rhode Island ferries to Block Island were also canceled.
“It’s a nuisance, but you know, we know what to do with this kind of stuff at this point,” said Sean Driscoll, spokesperson for the ferry service.
Residents’ Preparations
Residents like Ashley Destino in Gloucester, Massachusetts, prepared for the storm with indoor activities. She secured her boat with additional lines and checked her generator.
Willingham reported from Boston. Contributions to this article came from Associated Press writers Michael Casey, Rodrique Ngowi, and Anthony Izaguirre.
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