The weekend nor'easter will directly affect New York starting Friday evening. Gusts of up to 45 mph and 1 to 2 inches of rain are forecast, along with minor to moderate flooding in coastal areas. Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents to move cars parked on streets that flood regularly and to secure items left outdoors. The MTA is inspecting drains in flood-prone areas, and if winds pick up, officials are considering closing bridge walkways and restricting empty trucks.

The nor'easter, which has been strengthening over the ocean for several days, will directly affect New York starting Friday evening. The peak is expected between Friday night and Saturday, and rain could fall more steadily on Sunday.

Gusts are forecast to reach up to 45 mph, with rainfall of 1 to 2 inches. It looks more like a "windy, overcast weekend" than a downpour, but minor to moderate flooding is expected along the coast and in beach areas. The risk of rip currents and high waves is also significant. As the center of the low-pressure system passes out over the ocean, the heaviest rain is expected to be concentrated east of New York City.

Mayor: "Avoid Parking on Flood-Prone Streets"… MTA Inspecting Drains

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged residents: "Move your car to higher ground or park away from streets that normally flood, and secure any items left outside that could be blown away by strong winds." New York Gov. Kathy Hochul also said, "Keep checking the weather forecast and be ready to act right away if conditions change."

The MTA is inspecting drains in flood-prone areas in advance. If winds get stronger, it will restrict empty trucks from crossing and, if necessary, may close bridge walkways. Authorities advised against swimming, surfing and boating throughout the weekend.

Weekend Preparation Tips
Parking
Avoid flood-prone streets and park on higher ground
Around the home
Secure items that could blow away, such as yard chairs, planters and signs
Drainage
Clear fallen leaves and debris from the drains in front of your home in advance
Going out
Stay away from beaches and piers; slow down on windy stretches of bridges
Power outages
Charge phones and portable batteries, and check flashlights

Coastal flood warnings are already in effect for New Jersey's coastal counties. Saturday's full moon is another factor, as it will push high-tide levels above normal. In inland areas with large Korean American populations, such as Bergen County, it is more realistic to prepare for wind damage than for flooding.

If you have outdoor events planned for the weekend, it is a good idea to check the organizers' announcements before heading out. The nor'easter is expected to move away from New York and New Jersey during the day Sunday.