A significant nor’easter has impacted the East Coast over recent days, resulting in coastal flooding, heavy rainfall, and strong winds. This storm system has affected regions from the Carolinas to the northeastern United States.
Current Conditions and Forecast
As of Tuesday, two areas of low pressure remain near the East Coast, with the strongest positioned off the Delmarva Peninsula and Jersey Shore. High pressure in New Brunswick and Quebec is contributing to increased winds along the Northeast coast, particularly affecting southern New England and New Jersey.
Coastal Flooding Alerts
- Coastal flood warnings are set to expire Tuesday morning from the northern Outer Banks of North Carolina to Long Island.
- Moderate flooding is anticipated during high tide on Tuesday, particularly in specified areas.
- Possible lingering minor coastal flooding may affect southern New Jersey shore areas, including Atlantic City and Ocean City.
This ongoing flooding issue may lead to significant beach erosion and potential breaches in dunes, notably in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, where several homes have collapsed this year.
Winds and Rainfall Forecast
Winds are expected to continue with gusts possibly lingering along the immediate East Coast, affecting areas such as Nantucket and Long Island. This may cause additional power outages and damage.
- Another inch or more of rain could fall in parts of southeast New England and the Jersey Shore through Tuesday.
- This additional rain may exacerbate flooding conditions in these regions.
Storm Impacts Recap
Before the nor’easter hit, onshore winds caused high surf and coastal flooding in areas from the Carolinas to eastern Florida. Charleston, South Carolina, recorded a river gauge crest of 8.46 feet, marking a significant event in its history.
- Georgetown, South Carolina, experienced nearly a foot of rainfall, resulting in flooding and rescues of stranded motorists.
- Widespread rainfall totals of 4 to 9 inches have been recorded along the South Carolina coastline.
North Myrtle Beach set a new daily rainfall record of 3.29 inches on Sunday, breaking the previous record established in 1977.
Regional Effects and Safety Measures
In North Carolina, areas such as the Outer Banks faced severe coastal flooding, impacting roads and homes. Two to three feet of inundation were reported in locations like downtown New Bern.
- Virginia had coastal flooding in neighborhoods near Little Creek in Norfolk.
- New Jersey experienced flooding with two feet of water covering roads in North Wildwood.
Wind gusts over 50 mph were recorded across several states, leading to significant power outages affecting over 35,000 customers from North Carolina through New England.
Final Note
The impacts of this powerful nor’easter highlight the importance of staying informed and cautious in coastal areas, especially during high tide and heavy rain events. Residents are urged to avoid the surf and heed local warnings in the coming days.
