A powerful nor'easter intensified Friday, generating storm-force winds and creating massive waves along the East Coast that forecasters warned could create dangerous conditions through the weekend. Tens of millions of people are in the path of the storm, which has already prompted evacuations and cancellations.
Dangerous flooding was expected along the Mid-Atlantic coast, particularly near New Jersey and Delaware starting Friday and heading into Saturday, according to the National Weather Service. Brian Hurley, senior national forecaster with NWS’ Weather Prediction Center, stated that the heaviest rain would likely be from coastal Jersey, Long Island, up to Rhode Island, and eastern Massachusetts.
New Jersey Communities Brace for Flooding
In New Jersey, a voluntary evacuation was issued in some low-lying areas of Manasquan, a coastal borough. The governors of New Jersey and New York declared states of emergency in advance of the storm. Manasquan Mayor Mike Mangan reported that the area was experiencing "at the high end of moderate and maybe the low end of major flooding," warning of significant water in the streets.
Sea Bright, New Jersey, is bracing for winds up to 50 mph (80 kph) and flooding that could reach up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) on some streets. Mayor Brian Kelly anticipates the flooding will begin Saturday and worsen by midday, comparing the potential impact to that of Hurricane Irene in 2011. The town plans to open its recreation center for evacuees, though Kelly urged residents in low-lying areas to consider leaving.
Damaging Winds in Coastal New England
Peak wind gusts could approach 60 to 65 mph (97 to 105 kph) on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket on Friday night and Saturday. Around Boston, gusts are expected to be about 50 to 55 mph (80 to 89 kph), with lighter winds farther inland, according to meteorologist Matthew Belk of the NWS in Norton, Massachusetts. Belk noted that the closer proximity to the coast, the greater the impact from the storm.
Belk also pointed out that with leaves still on trees early in the fall season, there is an increased risk of downed limbs, which could lead to power outages and debris on roads.
Storm Disrupts Events and Travel
The storm has already caused disruptions to planned events. The Red Sox adjusted their weekend series against the Chicago Cubs, moving the Sunday afternoon game to Friday for a split doubleheader. Singer Ed Sheeran canceled his Friday and Saturday shows at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, due to the storm.
Ferry services connecting Cape Cod with the islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard experienced widespread cancellations Friday due to strong winds and choppy waters. Several flights to the islands were also canceled, as were ferries to Block Island in Rhode Island. These disruptions were expected to continue into Saturday. Sean Driscoll, a spokesperson for the Woods Hole, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Steamship Authority, stated that island travel disruptions are a known part of life in the region, with most residents having contingency plans.
In Gloucester, Massachusetts, residents like Ashley Destino were preparing to stay indoors for the weekend, securing their belongings and preparing for potential power outages. Destino prepared activities for her two young children and ensured her boat was secured with additional lines, while her husband readied a generator.