An unusual September nor'easter is developing off the coast of New York and New Jersey this weekend. Forming at sea on Wednesday, it will affect the region from Friday through Sunday, with waves of 6 to 12 feet along the coast, strong northeast winds and coastal flooding expected at each high tide. The Jersey Shore and the South Shore of Long Island will be hit hardest, while rainfall totals in New York City and inland areas will vary widely depending on the storm's track. With many outdoor events scheduled this weekend, check before heading out.
A nor'easter is developing off the coast of New York and New Jersey this weekend. It is unusual because this type of low-pressure system typically arrives in late fall and winter, not September. The low is forecast to develop at sea on Wednesday and affect the region from Friday through Sunday.
The most certain impact is along the coast. Waves of 6 to 12 feet are forecast along the shoreline and 6 to 10 feet along the Jersey Shore, and strong northeast winds lasting several days are expected to cause repeated coastal flooding at each high tide. Flooding is expected to be minor in most areas, but some locations could see moderate flooding. A coastal flood advisory has already been issued for Ocean County, New Jersey, and more are expected for nearby areas. The risks of beach erosion and rip currents will also stay high for several days.
Rainfall Depends on Storm Track; Wind Gusts of 50 to 70 mph Possible
How much rain will fall is still uncertain. Depending on the forecast model, if the low tracks close to the coast, New York City would be in its direct path, with heavy rain, gusts of around 50 mph and significant storm surge. If it moves farther out to sea, the city would stay on the storm's outer edge and feel far weaker effects. Forecasts call for 3 inches or more of rain in eastern Long Island. If the low passes close to New Jersey and Long Island, gusts of up to 50 to 70 mph are also possible.
Inland areas should stay mostly dry through Thursday, with rain beginning to reach eastern areas late Friday. For Korean American households living inland in New York and New Jersey, the weekend is more likely to be cloudy and windy than rainy. But if the storm's track shifts west, conditions could change, so it is best to check the forecast again just before the weekend.
It happens to be a weekend packed with outdoor events. The 25th New Jersey Chuseok Festival is scheduled for Sept. 25 and 26 at Neuoverpeck Park in Ridgefield Park. Schedules may change depending on wind and rain, so it is safest to check the organizers' announcements before heading out. If you had planned a beach outing or fishing trip, it would be best to postpone it this weekend.