A powerful storm fueled by an atmospheric river is currently wreaking havoc along the entire East Coast, bringing heavy rain and strong winds that are causing disruptions and safety concerns. The Northeast region is experiencing the brunt of the storm, with winds gusting up to 60 mph and heavy rainfall leading to treacherous travel conditions and potential power outages.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings about the possibility of downed trees and power lines, urging caution for high-profile vehicles on the roads. As of Wednesday night, over 80,000 homes and businesses have already lost power, with significant outages reported in Maine and Massachusetts.
The atmospheric river drawing moisture from the warm tropical ocean off the Southeast coast is contributing to the unprecedented levels of moisture in the Northeast, increasing the risk of flash flooding. This moisture-rich system is being compared to a similar event last December that resulted in widespread flooding and damage in Maine.
The current storm comes after a prolonged period of drought caused by record warm and dry conditions in the fall, with cities like Philadelphia and New York experiencing minimal rainfall for months. Despite this, the storm is expected to bring substantial rainfall, with the potential for localized flooding and rapid snowmelt in interior New England.
While the Northeast faces the brunt of the storm, the mid-Atlantic region is also at risk of severe thunderstorms, with damaging winds and even tornadoes possible in some areas. Additionally, a blast of Arctic air following the storm will bring below-normal temperatures to the Northern Plains and Midwest, triggering lake-effect snow in the Great Lakes region.
As the storm continues to impact the East Coast, residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being.
