Nor'easter Focuses Hazards To The Mid-Atlantic, New England

The coastal storm will continue to bring rain, wind, and coastal flooding to the southern half of New England into the eastern Mid-Atlantic through tonight.

This Nor'easter will meander just off the Mid-Atlantic Coast today before changing course and moving out to sea on Tuesday. While not classified as a tropical system, this area of low pressure will be carrying a slew of tropical moisture, which will contribute to heavy rain totals. Moderate to heavy rain will come in waves to southern New England and the eastern Mid-Atlantic.

One to 2 inch rain totals will occur across the coastal Mid-Atlantic and southern New England through tonight, with localized rain amounts up to 3 inches possible. Portions of eastern Massachusetts may even see an additional half inch of rain on Tuesday as well.

As mentioned, this low pressure system is strong, which will bring gusty winds in addition to the heavy rain. Plenty of coastal areas on the East Coast will see sustained winds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts up to 40 to 50 mph today! Farther inland, sustained winds of 15 to 25 mph and peak gusts of 30 to 40 mph will be more common. These winds will later weaken this evening and tonight, but wind gusts will remain in the 25 to 35 mph range. High Wind Warnings and Wind Advisories are dotted along the coast from eastern Massachusetts to central New Jersey.

Remember, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” if you approach a flooded roadway. It’s never too early to have a supply kit packed in case of inclement weather. A simple kit including a weather radio, water, blankets, batteries and non-perishable food items will go a long way in the event of a power outage. It’s always best to avoid travel in rough weather as the roads will be dangerous.