Powerful Nor’easter to Hit East Coast This Weekend

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — A powerful nor’easter is set to impact millions along the East Coast this weekend, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and dangerous surf conditions. The storm is expected to develop on Saturday off the Southeast coast and continue through early next week, with severe weather affecting areas from North Carolina to New England.

The National Weather Service warns that this storm could result in major coastal flooding and beach erosion. It poses a significant risk to travel, potentially causing disruptions at major airport hubs in Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston.

Acting Gov. Tashea Way of New Jersey announced a state of emergency on Friday. “I urge all New Jerseyans to exercise caution, monitor local weather forecasts, and remain off the roads unless absolutely necessary,” Way said. The storm is expected to generate strong winds reaching up to 60 mph, particularly affecting coastal regions.

Rainfall estimates indicate that the North Carolina coast could see up to six inches by Sunday, with gusty winds adding to the potential for beach erosion. The Outer Banks are already seeing significant damage, with at least nine homes collapsing due to ongoing erosion.

The storm will create hazardous conditions well into the mid-Atlantic and Northeast. Flash flood watches are in place, and areas under the storm’s influence may experience localized flash flooding due to heavy and persistent rainfall. Wind gusts between 40-50 mph are expected, and power outages may occur in coastal and inland areas.

Coastal flooding is likely, especially in New Jersey, where water levels could rise significantly. The National Weather Service has warned that Atlantic City may experience its highest tide since 2012, causing widespread road closures and flooding in neighborhoods.

The storm will bring unsafe swimming conditions due to rough surf along hundreds of miles of coastline. As the nor’easter moves away by Monday into Tuesday, the East Coast might finally get a break from the wet weather.

The forecast indicates that temperatures will shift back to seasonal norms after the storm passes, moving toward the mid-60s by midweek.