New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for New York City and much of the surrounding metropolitan area this evening as a powerful Nor’easter moved in.
The order, which also extends to Nassau, Richmond, Suffolk, and Westchester counties, was announced by Fox 5. It enables the release of state funds to help address storm-related damage.
Across the Hudson, New Jersey officials had already issued their own state of emergency last night.
Forecasters warn that the storm could bring severe winds and heavy rain to both states, with gusts potentially reaching 60 mph from Sunday into Monday. The system is also expected to cause “major” coastal flooding along Long Island and throughout the Jersey shoreline.
Meteorologists said winds began intensifying Sunday afternoon, with speeds on the coast ranging between 40 and 50 mph — and possibly stronger gusts — according to Fox Weather. Inland areas could see consistent winds of 30 to 40 mph, lasting into Monday.
Rainfall will persist through Monday morning. Though most of it will be light, there will be bursts of heavier downpours. By Monday evening, up to two inches of rain are expected across the metro area, while Boston and Rhode Island could see totals approaching three inches, Fox reported.
Flooding threats are greatest around the next two high tides — at midnight and again at noon Monday — when water levels could surge three feet and waves may reach as high as 15 feet.
“The primary concern is along the immediate coast for moderate to major coastal flooding through Monday afternoon,” Fox Weather meteorologist Cody Braud told The Post.
The most severe impacts will stretch from Long Island Sound down through New Jersey and as far south as Delaware Bay, according to Fox’s forecast.
Conditions should gradually improve by Tuesday, though winds up to 25 mph may linger.
“Most people think Nor’easters, most think of the snow and winter first. In this instance, it is all rain, wind, and coastal flooding,” Braud said.
He added that “the main area of low pressure tied to the Nor’easter will move east into the open waters of the Atlantic on Tuesday. Some coastal flooding could linger into the midweek, but it will be minor compared to the next 24-36 hours.”
Kathy, despite being a privileged white female Karen, is a natural born leader. One tough decisive lady. Not one to play games. The buck stops with her.