A powerful nor’easter is set to strike the East Coast this weekend, with scientists saying that climate change is amplifying its intensity. The storm’s development has been aided by the Atlantic’s unusually warm waters, a condition that is 10 to 50 times more likely under human‑caused warming, according to the non‑profit Climate Central. Although a strong El Niño pattern has so far kept hurricane activity low, the warm ocean has helped the nor’easter form.
Rising sea levels are expected to worsen flooding across the region. Climate Central’s Dr. Zachary Labe explained that higher baseline water levels mean coastal communities start each storm from a higher point, making flooding and erosion more likely and more severe. The group noted that Delaware would experience only minor flooding without sea‑level rise, and New York City would see no flooding at all in the absence of climate change.
Wind and rain are already causing damage. A 52‑mph gust was recorded on Long Island’s northern side, and coastal flooding has begun in parts of Virginia and North Carolina. Rip currents, heavy rain, and strong winds are expected to make travel difficult. New York and New Jersey governors declared states of emergency, with New York Gov. Kathy Hochul urging residents to take the storm seriously and warning of dangerous coastal flooding, strong winds and potential power outages.
The storm has already prompted cancellations, such as the Global Citizens Festival in New York City, and utility companies are preparing. Con Edison said it was deploying additional crews around the clock, while PSE&G in New Jersey announced 24/7 readiness to restore service. Lifeguards are not on duty at public beaches this weekend, and federal forecasters warn that the nor’easter’s impacts could extend into next week, with wind gusts over 50 mph likely in eastern Long Island and southeastern New England, potentially causing further power outages and tree damage.
