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A powerful nor'easter will bring strong winds, heavy rain, and coastal flooding to much of the U.S. East Coast this weekend, with the greatest impacts expected for Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket in Massachusetts.
What is a nor’easter?
A nor'easter is a type of extratropical cyclone that primarily affects the U.S. East Coast. The phenomenon gets its name from the strong northeasterly winds that usually accompany these systems.
Depending on its intensity and the time of year, a nor'easter can cause heavy rain, strong winds, high surf, coastal flooding, and power outages.
In this case, the system that will affect the northeastern United States will intensify near the coast and bring its strongest winds toward Cape Cod and the Massachusetts islands.
Which U.S. states will be affected by the nor'easter?
The greatest impacts are expected in parts of New England and the northeastern United States, especially in coastal areas of Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
Meteorological authorities have issued warnings for waters near Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and Block Island, where dangerous conditions for vessels are expected. The NWS is forecasting storm-force winds and high surf in these areas.
Winds of up to 105 km/h (65 mph) in Cape Cod
The strongest gusts could reach between 97 and 105 km/h (60 to 65 mph) in Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket between Friday night and Saturday morning.
In the Boston area, gusts could hover around 80 to 89 km/h (50 to 55 mph), while further inland they could reach between 56 and 64 km/h (35 to 40 mph).
Meteorologist Matthew Belk, from the National Weather Service in Norton, Massachusetts, explained that the impacts will be greater the closer a person is to the coast.
Why is the wind so concerning?
One of the factors that can increase damage is that the leaves are still on the trees, as the system is arriving relatively early in the autumn season.
The foliage offers greater wind resistance, which can increase the risk of branches and trees falling, as well as cause power outages and road obstructions.
The NWS is also warning of dangerous marine conditions. In some coastal waters of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, advisories have been issued for storm-force winds and waves that could pose a danger to vessels.
Cancellations and changes due to the nor'easter
The storm is already causing modifications to activities and services in the region.
The Boston Red Sox modified their weekend series against the Chicago Cubs and moved up the game originally scheduled for Sunday to hold a split doubleheader.
Changes to Ed Sheeran's concerts at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, were also announced due to weather conditions.
Ferry services between Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard reported cancellations due to strong winds and high seas. Ferries to Block Island were also canceled in Rhode Island.
Disruptions could continue through Saturday, so authorities recommend checking weather conditions and service status before traveling.
When will the nor'easter arrive?
The most significant effects are expected between Friday, September 25, and Saturday, September 26, especially in the coastal areas of the northeastern United States.
The NWS is maintaining warnings and watches for dangerous marine conditions during this period.
Although extratropical cyclones are not unusual during the fall in New England, the combination of strong winds, rain, waves, and coastal flooding makes this system a significant phenomenon for those who live in or travel along the U.S. East Coast.
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