On Friday night, thousands of residents along the US East Coast lost power as some roads in coastal New Jersey were submerged, signaling the start of a significant nor’easter that is anticipated to bring hazardous conditions throughout the weekend.
Millions are caught in the storm’s path, which has already begun to batter the region with heavy winds and rainfall.
The National Weather Service warns of severe flooding, especially near the coasts of New Jersey and Delaware.
In Manasquan, a coastal borough in New Jersey, roads became impassable as water levels rose with the unpredictable weather.
Previously, a voluntary evacuation was recommended in some lower-lying parts of the area.
Mayor Mike Mangan mentioned, rather somberly, that he expected “considerable flooding” for an extended period.
In response to the storm, multiple concerts have been called off, and numerous flights into airports like Boston, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard were canceled for Friday and Saturday.
Several airlines are now allowing passengers to change or cancel their flights without charges for those on the East Coast during the storm.
New Jersey communities prepare for significant flooding
In Sea Bright, a small beach community in New Jersey, Mayor Brian Kelly reported winds could reach up to 50 mph, and flooding might even exceed 6 feet in certain areas.
Officials predict that flooding will commence Saturday and worsen around midday.
Describing past experiences, Kelly remarked that while they typically see a flooding event once or twice a year, this situation might resemble the flooding from Hurricane Irene in 2011. “I hope I’m wrong, but that’s my gut feeling,” he added.
He encouraged residents in vulnerable areas to consider evacuating, stating the town would open a facility for those needing shelter.
Coastal New England faces threats from damaging winds
Gusts in coastal regions like Cape Cod and the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket could peak at 60 to 65 mph this weekend, while areas around Boston should expect 50 to 55 mph, and even lower further inland, according to meteorologist Matthew Belk from NWS in Norton, Massachusetts.
“The closer you are to the coast, the more you’ll feel the storm’s effects,” Belk noted thoughtfully.
He explained that nor’easters are relatively common in New England during fall; however, the presence of leaves this early in the season on trees poses a problem as they could cause more wind resistance.
This situation raises the chances of downed branches, which can lead to power outages and obstruct roadways.
Along the New Jersey and Delaware coasts, gusts may reach up to 60 mph, with similar threats to southeastern Connecticut and eastern Long Island, where the risk of falling limbs and power lines is significant.
The storm disrupts concerts, sports events, and travel plans
Over 200 flights to and from Boston, Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, and New York were canceled on Friday, and more cancellations loomed for the following day.
The Boston Red Sox rearranged their weekend schedule against the Chicago Cubs, shifting the Sunday game to Friday for a doubleheader.
Moreover, Ed Sheeran announced the cancellation of his concerts scheduled for Friday and Saturday at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, due to the storm.
Ferry services connecting Cape Cod with Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard experienced significant cancellations on Friday due to the rough weather, and similar issues were reported for Block Island ferries in Rhode Island, extending into Saturday.
For many who frequently visit the islands, getting stuck might be part of the usual routine. Sean Driscoll, a spokesperson for the regional ferry authority, remarked that most locals know how to adapt when ferry services are disrupted. “It’s a nuisance, but we’ve learned to deal with it,” he said. “This is not out of the realm of ordinary.”
Ashley Destino from Gloucester, Massachusetts, took her two young kids for a beach walk before settling in for the storm. “We wanted to get out before we’re cooped up all weekend,” she shared, mentioning she had prepared games and crafts for her children. She also secured their boat with extra lines and readied a generator just in case they lost power.
