Nor’easter batters US Northeast as flooding, strong winds trigger emergency measures

NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY — A powerful nor’easter is disrupting communities across the US Northeast, bringing heavy rain, strong winds and coastal flooding while authorities in New York and New Jersey urge residents to take precautions.

The storm has affected a wide area from the Mid-Atlantic into New England, with coastal communities facing particularly dangerous conditions. New Jersey declared a state of emergency across eight counties, while New York also activated emergency measures as the storm moved through the region.

Floodwater covers a roadway in New Jersey as a powerful nor’easter brings heavy rain, strong winds and coastal flooding to the US Northeast.

Coastal communities hit by flooding

Flooding has been reported in several coastal communities, including parts of New Jersey and New York. Streets and some properties were inundated as heavy rain coincided with high tides.

In New Jersey, flooding affected communities including Manasquan and Sea Bright, while parts of Queens in New York City also experienced significant water accumulation.

The National Weather Service warned of significant coastal inundation in low-lying areas, with additional flooding possible during successive high-tide cycles.

A powerful nor’easter is bringing heavy rain, strong winds and coastal flooding to New York, New Jersey and surrounding states, disrupting travel and prompting emergency measures.

Strong winds add to the danger

The storm has also brought powerful winds capable of bringing down trees and power lines. Wind gusts of up to around 60 mph have been forecast along parts of the Jersey Shore and Long Island, with strong winds extending farther inland.

The combination of saturated ground and strong winds has increased the risk of falling trees and further power outages.

Tens of thousands of customers across the Northeast have experienced electricity disruptions during the storm, according to reports tracking the outages.

Storm Clouds Gather Over New York as Nor’easter Sweeps Region

Travel and public events disrupted

The weather has also caused widespread travel disruption. Hundreds of flights were cancelled and more than a thousand delayed as airlines dealt with deteriorating conditions at airports across the region.

Several sporting and entertainment events were also cancelled or postponed because of the storm, including events in New York and the Boston area.

Authorities have repeatedly urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in areas affected by flooding.

More rain and flooding possible

Forecasters say the storm is expected to continue affecting the region through Sunday, with additional periods of heavy rain, strong winds and coastal flooding possible.

The National Weather Service has warned that another round of tidal flooding could occur as high tide moves through affected coastal areas.

Forecast rainfall totals vary across the region, with some coastal areas expected to receive several inches of rain. Localised flooding could become a problem where drainage systems are overwhelmed.

Officials are advising residents to remain alert, follow local emergency instructions and avoid walking or driving through floodwater.