A developing and significant Nor’easter is poised to unleash “major” coastal flooding in parts of the mid-Atlantic from Sunday into Monday, prompting authorities in New Jersey to declare a state of emergency in advance.
The interplay of strong and persistent northeast winds along with elevated astronomical tides is expected to generate pounding surf along the Atlantic coastline from Virginia to New England.
However, New Jersey and Delaware coasts, including Delaware Bay, seem poised to bear the brunt of the flooding.
Coastal Flood Watches are set from Sunday through Monday, as forecasts predict wave heights of 12–15 feet, indicating potential tide levels reaching 2–4 feet above normal in some areas.
“Moderate to Major coastal flood impacts are becoming increasingly likely,” noted forecasters from the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, New Jersey, on Friday morning. “Widespread roadway flooding, impassable roads, inundated structures, and evacuations could occur Sunday to Monday.”
The forecasts also indicate the potential for significant beach erosion and dune breaches due to the anticipated high surf.
Acting New Jersey Governor Tahesha Way announced that all 21 counties in New Jersey will be under a statewide emergency beginning midday Saturday due to the looming storm threat.
The emergency declaration is designed to expedite emergency services and allocate additional resources for storm readiness and response efforts.
“A hazardous coastal storm will start moving past our state on Sunday, bringing extreme weather conditions to several counties—especially along the Shore,” Way warned. “I urge everyone in New Jersey to exercise caution, stay updated with local weather forecasts and alerts, be informed about evacuation protocols, and avoid unnecessary travel.”
High Wind Watches are also issued from Long Island through coastal New Jersey and Delaware.
Wind gusts may reach over 60 mph, with sustained winds of 25-35 mph along the coast, contributing to the substantial surf.
In preparation for the severe weather, New York officials have already suspended Fire Island ferry services for both Sunday and Monday.
Locations further inland might experience flash flooding due to intense rainfalls.
Predictions indicate a widespread accumulation of 3-5 inches of rain along the coast until Tuesday.
NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center has identified a significant Level 2/4 flash flood risk area stretching from Norfolk, Virginia, through Philadelphia, New York City, and southern New England on Sunday.
