Nor'easter to Unleash Coastal Flooding, High Winds on NYC Area This Weekend
Forecasters warn of a prolonged event with potential for significant rainfall and gusts up to 50 mph.
A powerful nor'easter is poised to impact the New York City metropolitan area this weekend, bringing the threat of coastal flooding and high winds, with gusts potentially reaching 50 mph. The storm is expected to linger, with some effects possibly extending into Monday.
High winds began affecting the region Friday morning, and rain was anticipated to start on Long Island in the evening before moving into the city. Forecasters predict the most severe weather will occur on Saturday, driven by a combination of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and the weekend's full moon, which exacerbates coastal flooding risks along the metro area and the Jersey shore.
AccuWeather senior meteorologist Kerry Schwindenhammer described the storm as a "long duration event" due to its slow movement, with the peak impacts likely on Saturday and Sunday. Coastal flood and wind advisories are in effect from Friday afternoon through Sunday evening, though the storm's persistence could extend its influence further. The storm's track has shifted slightly south, increasing the potential for the most severe flooding along the Jersey shore.
Long Island could experience wind gusts up to 60 mph, posing a risk of downed trees and power lines. Rainfall is estimated to range from up to 2 inches in Manhattan to 2 to 4 inches in Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Long Island.
The New York City Emergency Management office has advised residents to avoid travel beginning Friday at 2 p.m. due to the high winds. Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents, particularly those in basement apartments, to be prepared to move to higher ground if conditions become dangerous, noting the storm's path has shifted closer to the city, intensifying rain and wind.
Governor Hochul has cautioned residents in the city, Long Island, and the lower Mid-Hudson area to exercise caution throughout the weekend. "I urge New Yorkers to stay informed, stay prepared, and closely monitor local weather updates as conditions develop over the weekend," Hochul stated, adding that the state is actively monitoring the storm's progression and potential impacts.