Powerful nor'easter floods US Northeast coast, prompting emergencies in New York and New Jersey
A powerful nor'easter storm has brought coastal flooding, widespread power outages and flight cancellations to the northeastern United States, leading New York and New Jersey to declare states of emergency.
Tens of millions of people across the northeastern United States faced dangerous weather on Saturday as a powerful nor'easter storm brought coastal flooding, strong winds and heavy rain to the region. The National Weather Service warned of hazardous flooding and beach conditions in areas stretching from New York City to Boston.
New York and New Jersey both declared states of emergency after coastal communities were inundated. Streets and homes flooded in the New Jersey towns of Surf City and Manasquan, with some residents resorting to kayaks to get around their neighbourhoods. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill urged residents to take the storm seriously and follow local guidance.
The storm caused widespread power cuts, leaving more than 100,000 households without electricity, most of them in the northeast. Air travel was also disrupted, with more than 2,400 flights delayed and 1,199 cancelled. The Federal Aviation Administration advised passengers to check flight status with their airlines before travelling.
In New York, officials warned of wind gusts up to 55mph capable of downing trees and power lines. Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents not to travel unless necessary and to avoid walking or driving through floodwater. Saturday's full moon was expected to intensify coastal flooding further.
The weather forced the cancellation of several major events. Ed Sheeran's anticipated concert at Gillette Stadium near Boston was called off for safety reasons, while the Boston Red Sox moved their final game against the Chicago Cubs to Sunday, relocating it to Florida. A football match between Red Bull New York and St Louis City SC was also cancelled, as was the Global Citizen Festival in Central Park, which was set to feature Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean and John Legend.
