A massive storm system is set to rake northeastern states near the end of the week, bringing heavy rainfall, high winds and coastal flooding from big waves, according to weather forecasts.
A storm system set to bring rain to southern states on Wednesday will move towards Great Lakes states before heading offshore. Once offshore, the system is expected to become the most powerful storm since January’s “bomb cyclone.” In fact, the storm may develop into another bomb, according to Weather.us meteorologist Ryan Maue.
Will this Nor’easter be a “bomb cyclone”? Yes, a very good chance. The definition is 24 mb pressure drop in 24-hours and the most recent GFS 12z hourly forecast has 23 mb! (https://t.co/XcmEbEJxko) pic.twitter.com/MiHwPJqD3G
— Ryan Maue | weather.us (@RyanMaue) February 28, 2018
Unfortunately, it’s expected to end a short run of spring-like weather up and down the Atlantic coast. Strong winds and rain will replace sunshine, meaning residents should prepare for travel delays and possible power outages. Coastal flooding could also become a big issue for oceanfront property owners.
Coastal New England can expect heavy rainfall and hurricane force winds on Friday, according to Maue.
Animation of brewing Nor’easter from Thursday to Sunday as it consolidates around one center of circulation — massive wind field (1-km above surface level) … from our U.S.A. GFS weather model.
GIF direct link: (from @weathermodels_ https://t.co/6bDNaVUI66) pic.twitter.com/Iria8hQF3q— Ryan Maue | weather.us (@RyanMaue) February 28, 2018
Maue’s forecast shows the Boston area could see three to four inches of rainfall through Sunday. Parts of Maine, New Hampshire and Rhode Island can also expect heavy rainfall. Farther west, however, will likely see rain turn to snowfall by Friday.
Source: Ryan Maue, Weathermodels.com
NOW WATCH:
The nor’easter is expected to generate big waves, which increases the risk of coastal flooding in Atlantic states. Weather Channel meteorologist Greg Postrel showed forecasts of wave heights reaching more than 20 feet off New England.
The bigtime Northeast storm upcoming (Thu late-Sat) will be a huge wave maker .. and present a real risk for dangerous coastal flooding pic.twitter.com/w5E7KHCnlS
— Greg Postel (@GregPostel) February 28, 2018
A flood watch is in effect for eastern Massachusetts, the National Weather Service (NWS) said. There’s likely to be beach erosion, but NWS said there’s a potential for “major coastal flooding.”
Update: This story has been updated to reflect that the nor’easter could in fact become a “bomb cyclone.”
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