A powerful tropical wind and rainstorm is commencing its onslaught on the U.S. mid-Atlantic coast this weekend, threatening major coastal flooding, widespread power outages, and significant travel disruptions from North Carolina to near New York City.
AccuWeather meteorologists warn the storm is intensifying as it moves northward and will deliver damaging winds and rainfall comparable to a hurricane or a powerful nor’easter from Sunday to Tuesday. Already, onshore winds and “king tides” have been causing flooding from Florida to the Carolinas since Friday.
“This will be a damaging and disruptive storm along the Atlantic coast regardless of any official designation or not by the National Hurricane Center,” said AccuWeather Chief On-Air Meteorologist Bernie Rayno.
The storm is being monitored closely as it has the potential to evolve into a subtropical or hybrid storm. If designated, it would be named Lorenzo, the next name on the 2025 Atlantic season list. New Jersey’s Acting Governor Tahesha Way has already declared a State of Emergency in effect from Saturday evening to Monday to prepare for the impacts.
Major Coastal Flooding and Sandy Comparison
The combination of the storm’s intensity and prolonged presence near the coast is expected to drive a significant storm surge. A broad zone from the Carolinas to southeastern New England anticipates a surge of 1-3 feet, with pockets expecting a surge of 4-5 feet in some beach and back bay communities.
In the worst-hit areas of the mid-Atlantic, the storm surge could be among the most impactful since Superstorm Sandy in 2012. Water levels this high are expected to inundate first floors in some neighborhoods, render roads impassable, and lead to moderate to major beach erosion.
Damaging Winds and Travel Chaos
Winds are forecast to increase dramatically as the storm strengthens, with frequent gusts of 40–60 mph expected.
These damaging winds are expected to cause widespread power outages, fell trees, and make loose items airborne. High winds may also ground flights and cause delays and cancellations at major hubs, including airports around New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia. The danger extends offshore, with seas expected to reach 25 feet.
In addition to wind and storm surge, the storm will bring heavy rainfall, with 1–4 inches forecast across the coast, primarily from North Carolina to New Jersey.
AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva noted that the storm is forecast to stall and potentially loop around near the coast before heading out to sea on Tuesday, prolonging the duration of high winds, waves, and heavy downpours which could overwhelm storm drains and cause urban flooding.
READ: Powering Through Peril In Florida: Essential Generator Safety As Hurricane Season Looms
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