Powerful storm brings flooding, power outages to northeastern United States
A nor’easter has struck the northeastern United States, producing heavy rain, high tides and strong winds that have caused flooding and widespread power outages. Authorities reported hundreds of flight cancellations and urged residents to avoid flooded areas as state officials declared emergencies in hard-hit counties.
Why It Matters
The storm is disrupting travel, utilities and public events across a densely populated region and poses short-term risks to life and property as emergency measures are put in place. Continued high winds and coastal flooding over the coming days could expand impacts on infrastructure and communities already coping with outages and cancellations.
Key Facts
- Storm type: Nor’easter affecting northeastern United States
- Power outages: More than 88,000 homes and businesses without power as of Saturday afternoon, down from a peak of 119,000 earlier in the day
- Flight cancellations: About 425 flights cancelled and 1,338 delayed on Saturday (FlightAware data) — source also referenced 'more than 400' cancelled earlier
- States of emergency: Governors of New York and New Jersey declared states of emergency in counties expected to be hardest hit, including New York City
- Event cancellations: Concerts and sporting events cancelled, including Ed Sheeran shows in Massachusetts on Friday and Saturday
A nor’easter moved through the northeastern United States this weekend, bringing a combination of strong winds, heavy rain and elevated coastal tides. The National Weather Service in College Park, Maryland, warned the storm is likely to continue producing severe conditions over the next several days, with lead forecaster Bob Oravec citing risks from high winds, high tides and heavy rainfall. The system has caused significant disruptions. Utilities reported more than 88,000 customers without power as of Saturday afternoon — down from about 119,000 earlier — while flight tracker FlightAware recorded roughly 425 cancellations and 1,338 delays across the region. Authorities also reported flooding that left streets and public areas inundated in multiple communities. State officials moved to contain the danger by declaring states of emergency in counties expected to bear the brunt of the storm, including New York City. Local leaders urged residents to stay away from beaches and flooded zones; New York Governor Kathy Hochul said anyone entering or approaching the water this weekend was “literally gambling with their life.” Despite warnings, people were observed using kayaks on flooded Long Island streets and surfers took to large swells in New Hampshire. Residents described high water entering yards and public spaces as the storm advanced. Forecasters noted that nor’easters are a typical occurrence as New England transitions to autumn, but suggested this system may have arrived earlier in the season than is typical. The weather event also prompted cancellations of concerts and sporting events, including scheduled shows by Ed Sheeran in Massachusetts.
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