A powerful October nor’easter brought widespread flooding, dangerous surf and damaging winds to the U.S. East Coast over the weekend, prompting emergency declarations in multiple states as communities braced for continued impacts into Monday.
The storm reached North Carolina first, where high winds and heavy rain battered the Outer Banks. Highway 12 was closed early Sunday as ocean water washed over the roadway, and transportation cameras showed a truck stranded in the surf. Dare County officials warned that areas with little to no dune protection were especially vulnerable to overwash.
Farther south, parts of South Carolina saw severe flooding. In Georgetown County, up to seven inches of rain fell, stranding motorists and forcing emergency rescues. In Charleston, floodwaters closed downtown streets, while residents scrambled to protect their homes. In Myrtle Beach, overwhelmed stormwater systems led to additional road closures as officials urged residents to stay indoors.
By Sunday afternoon, the nor’easter moved north, bringing heavy rain and coastal flooding to Virginia, where Norfolk sealed its nine-mile wall in preparation. Gusting winds pushed high tide into neighborhoods along East Ocean View, and emergency officials urged people to avoid travel.
New Jersey Acting Gov. Tahesha Way declared a state of emergency Friday, allowing agencies to activate response plans. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul followed suit, issuing a state of emergency for New York City, Long Island and Westchester. “We’re ready to assist local partners as damaging winds and heavy rain move in, with the potential for flooding and power outages,” Hochul said.
The National Weather Service placed New York City, Long Island, and southern Westchester County under a coastal flood warning and wind advisory through at least Monday afternoon. Coastal communities were expected to see up to three inches of rain, strong gusts, and tidal flooding.
Delaware activated its National Guard to assist with storm response as impacts moved up the coast.
In this area, expect wind gusts of up to 25 mph today with a 70% chance of rain. Accumulations aren’t expected beyond a quarter of an inch.
Source: The Weather Channel