One killed as powerful nor'easter storm hits New York and New Jersey

A powerful weekend storm known as a nor'easter has swept across the northeastern United States, bringing coastal flooding, strong winds and widespread disruption from Virginia to Maine. New York and New Jersey both declared states of emergency as coastal areas faced significant flooding.

In Brooklyn, a falling tree killed 56-year-old Leighton Brown, an employee of the New York City Housing Authority. According to local reports, he was walking through the east Brooklyn neighbourhood while working an extra shift when the incident occurred. The Office of the NYC Public Advocate expressed condolences, describing him as a dedicated employee known for his warm personality.

Power outages and flight disruptions

More than 160,000 households, mostly in the northeastern US, lost power due to the storm, according to tracker PowerOutage. Flight disruptions were severe, with more than 2,400 flights delayed and another 1,199 grounded on Saturday, per FlightAware. A full moon worsened coastal flooding conditions, with floodwater inundating streets and homes in the New Jersey communities of Surf City and Manasquan.

Officials warned of wind gusts up to 55mph (86km/h), which brought down trees and power lines across the region. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and not to drive or walk through floodwater.

Cancelled events

The storm forced the postponement and cancellation of several sporting and entertainment events. The Boston Red Sox moved their final game against the Chicago Cubs to Sunday in Florida, while a football match between Red Bull New York and St Louis City SC was cancelled. The Global Citizen Festival concert in Central Park, which was to feature Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean and John Legend, was called off, as was Ed Sheeran's concert at Gillette Stadium near Boston.