Nor'easter storm brings coastal flooding, as New York and New Jersey declare emergency

What the report says

A strong nor'easter is affecting the US Northeast, with tens of millions of people from Maine to Virginia in its path, according to BBC World News. The storm has already triggered coastal flooding, power outages, travel disruptions and cancellations of major events, while the National Weather Service warned of dangerous shoreline flooding, strong winds and heavy rain affecting places including New York City and Boston.

New York and New Jersey have declared states of emergency. In New Jersey, flooding was reported in coastal communities such as Surf City and Manasquan, and residents were urged to follow local guidance and avoid unnecessary travel. In New York, officials warned of wind gusts that could bring down trees and cut power, while Mayor Zohran Mamdani told residents not to travel unless necessary and not to enter floodwater.

The storm is also disrupting transportation and entertainment. BBC reported nearly 150,000 households had lost electricity, with more than 1,100 flights delayed and about 400 cancelled or grounded. The FAA advised passengers to check with airlines. Saturday’s full moon is expected to worsen coastal inundation, adding to the risk in low-lying areas.

Several events were called off, including Ed Sheeran’s Boston concert, a Red Bull New York match, the Global Citizen Festival in Central Park and part of the Red Sox’s series against the Chicago Cubs. The storm highlights how nor'easters can quickly affect large stretches of the Atlantic coast, especially when tides and coastal winds combine.