Image Source: The New York Times
The latest weather storm brought widespread flooding to coastal New Jersey on Saturday, as a powerful nor’easter strengthened across the Northeast. Streets were submerged, some homes were inundated and more than 70,000 customers lost electricity as dangerous winds and high tides affected communities from the Mid-Atlantic to New England.
The National Weather Service warned that the storm could produce major coastal flooding over multiple high tide cycles throughout the weekend. Low-lying areas near the shore faced the greatest danger, with roads, homes and businesses at risk of significant inundation.
Urgent Weather Storm Threatens Major Coastal Flooding
Videos verified by NBC News showed heavy tidal flooding at Shelter Marina in Beach Haven, New Jersey. In nearby Beach Haven Crest, ducks moved through water-covered streets, while a resident’s video from Spray Beach showed floodwater reaching a fire hydrant and entering garages.
In Surf City, water rippled across flooded roads as waves pushed inland. About 34 miles north, Manasquan also reported flooded streets. Mayor Mike Mangan said he expected “a lot of water in the streets for a long time.” Officials had already issued a voluntary evacuation notice for some low-lying parts of the community.
Sea Bright officials were preparing for winds of up to 50 mph and flooding that could reach 6 feet on certain streets. Mayor Brian Kelly said the event could resemble the flooding caused by Hurricane Irene in 2011, although he hoped the comparison would prove too severe.
“It’s going to be worse than average,” Kelly said, adding that the community’s recreation center would be opened for residents who needed shelter. Hundreds of people living in vulnerable areas were encouraged to consider leaving before conditions deteriorated.
Powerful Winds Raise Outage and Damage Risks
Wind conditions were expected to become particularly dangerous along the New England coast. Matthew Belk, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Norton, Massachusetts, said peak gusts could approach 60 to 65 mph on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
Gusts around Boston could reach 50 to 55 mph, while inland areas could see winds of 35 to 40 mph. Along the coasts of New Jersey and Delaware, gusts could reach 60 mph. Southeastern Connecticut and eastern Long Island also faced the possibility of strong winds capable of bringing down tree limbs and power lines.
Belk noted that the timing of the storm could increase the risk of outages because many leaves remain on trees early in the fall season. The foliage creates additional wind resistance, making branches more likely to break and fall onto roads or utility lines.
- Coastal New Jersey and Delaware faced dangerous flooding and winds.
- Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket could see gusts up to 65 mph.
- More than 70,000 customers were without power.
- Low-lying communities prepared for evacuations and emergency shelter.
Flights, Ferries, Concerts and Baseball Disrupted
The nor’easter caused significant travel and entertainment disruptions across the region. Flight-tracking service FlightAware reported 39 cancellations at Boston Logan International Airport between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. Saturday, along with 22 cancellations at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. Logan also recorded 12 delays during that period.
Several airlines offered to waive selected change and cancellation fees for East Coast flights through the weekend. Ferry service between Cape Cod and Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard faced widespread cancellations because of strong winds and rough water. Ferry trips to Block Island in Rhode Island were also canceled.
The Boston Red Sox adjusted their weekend series against the Chicago Cubs, moving Sunday’s afternoon game to Friday to create a split doubleheader. Singer Ed Sheeran canceled his Friday and Saturday performances at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
Despite the disruption, some residents were making preparations at home. Ashley Destino of Gloucester, Massachusetts, took her children to the beach before planning to remain indoors for the weekend. Her family secured a boat, gathered activities for the children and prepared a generator in case of a power failure.
What Residents Should Know About the Nor’easter
Officials urged people in flood-prone areas to monitor local alerts, avoid flooded roads and follow evacuation instructions. Even shallow moving water can sweep away vehicles, while fallen trees and downed power lines may create additional hazards after the strongest winds pass.
The weather storm was expected to continue affecting coastal communities through the weekend, with repeated high tides potentially worsening flooding. Residents were advised to secure outdoor objects, charge essential devices, keep emergency supplies nearby and avoid unnecessary travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas were most affected by the weather storm?
Coastal New Jersey and Delaware faced the most serious flooding threats, while coastal New England communities faced strong winds, power outages and transportation disruptions.
How strong could the winds become?
Wind gusts could reach 60 mph along parts of the New Jersey and Delaware coasts and up to 65 mph across Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
Were flights and ferries canceled?
Yes. Flights were canceled and delayed at Boston Logan and New York’s John F. Kennedy airports. Ferry services to Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard and Block Island were also disrupted.
What should residents do during coastal flooding?
Residents should avoid flooded roads, follow local evacuation guidance, stay away from downed power lines and monitor official weather alerts throughout the storm.
