Nor’easter Causes Power Outages and Flooding in Northeast U.S.

A powerful nor’easter left more than 70,000 customers without electricity across the Northeast U.S. on Saturday. The National Weather Service warned of gale-force winds and heavy rain, creating hazardous conditions expected to persist throughout the weekend. Tens of millions were in the storm’s path, experiencing strong winds and torrential rain as the region prepared for intensified weather conditions. Significant flooding was anticipated along the Mid-Atlantic coast, especially in New Jersey and Delaware.

The National Weather Service advised coastal communities to prepare for major coastal flooding over several high tide cycles throughout the weekend. Residents in low-lying areas were urged to take immediate action to protect themselves, expecting roads to become submerged and possible impacts on homes and businesses.

In Surf City, New Jersey, floodwaters inundated streets and some homes. Approximately 34 miles away, Manasquan Mayor Mike Mangan anticipated significant street flooding, prompting a voluntary evacuation. Numerous concerts and flights into Boston, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard faced cancellations over the storm’s impact. Some airlines offered fee waivers for flight changes or cancellations on the East Coast.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted coastal flooding as the primary threat from the storm, predicting heavy rains, powerful winds, and waves up to 20 feet high. Despite initial minor rainfall, she warned of much more to come.

Sea Bright, New Jersey, braced for gusts reaching 50 mph and potential flooding up to 6 feet in some areas. Brian Kelly, the borough’s mayor, likened the situation to the Irene-scale flooding event of 2011. While uncertain, he encouraged residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate and announced the opening of a recreational center for evacuees.

Coastal New England faced potential wind gusts of 60 to 65 mph around Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket. Meteorologist Matthew Belk noted that those closer to the coast should expect more severe impacts. In-tree leaves heightened the risk of downed limbs, increasing the likelihood of power outages.

Along the Atlantic coasts of New Jersey and Delaware, gusts might reach 60 mph, with similar conditions forecasted for southeastern Connecticut and eastern Long Island, New York.

Air travel disruptions were significant, with Boston Logan International Airport reporting 39 cancellations and multiple delays. The Red Sox adjusted their weekend series against the Chicago Cubs, moving a Sunday game to Friday, creating a doubleheader. Ed Sheeran canceled his shows in Foxborough, Massachusetts, due to the storm. Ferry services to Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard faced widespread cancellations.

For regular travelers to these islands, such disruptions are typical, shared Sean Driscoll, spokesperson for the Steamship Authority. Residents often have contingency plans for canceled services.

In Gloucester, Massachusetts, Ashley Destino took her children to the beach before the storm’s full arrival. Destino prepared to stay indoors with her kids, aged 7 and 4, keeping entertainment and emergency supplies ready, including securing her boat with extra lines and setting up a generator for potential outages.