A nor'easter is intensifying as it approaches the Northeast, with meteorologists revising forecasts to show stronger winds, heavier rainfall and greater coastal flooding risk than initially predicted. The storm will affect more than 40 million people across a broad swath of the eastern seaboard from North Carolina to Massachusetts through the weekend.
The storm is tracking closer to major population centers than earlier models suggested. John Davitt, chief meteorologist for Spectrum News NY1, said Friday that weather models have converged on the forecast. "In terms of strength and intensity, we've seen worse… but still, it's going to leave an impact," Davitt told WNYC's Brian Lehrer.
Coastal areas from New Jersey to Massachusetts face the strongest impact, with wind gusts exceeding 100 kilometers per hour forecast for some areas of New England. The eastern portion of Massachusetts, including Boston, is expected to receive unusually heavy rainfall. Coastal regions of North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey have already experienced flooding since Wednesday due to the severe weather conditions.
In New York City, a Wind Advisory takes effect at 2 p.m. Friday and continues until 6 a.m. Sunday for Staten Island and other areas. Winds will gradually increase Friday from the northeast before shifting north on Saturday, with sustained speeds of 20 to 25 mph and gusts reaching 40 to 50 mph. The strongest winds are expected Friday night through Saturday night.
The National Weather Service warns that saturated soil combined with sustained winds could lead to downed trees and power lines even at gust speeds below 46 mph. A Coastal Flood Warning is in effect beginning 6 p.m. Friday, with the most severe coastal flooding impacts expected Saturday into Sunday.
This marks the third consecutive weekend with wet weather in New York City. While the storm is expected to be weaker in the five boroughs than in areas further east, the latest forecast calls for increased impacts across the city.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged New Yorkers traveling this weekend to give themselves extra time and check train, ferry and flight status before leaving. He advised residents to avoid low-lying areas and warned those living in basement apartments to know their way out and be prepared to move to a higher floor if conditions become dangerous. "Look out for your neighbors," Mamdani wrote. "And make sure you're getting the latest updates by texting NOTIFYNYC to 692-692."
Authorities anticipate widespread impacts including flooding, fallen trees and damage to power lines across the affected region. Two Ed Sheeran concerts were cancelled because of the storm.