The nor’easter that struck the East Coast this weekend has caused extensive damage, particularly in New Jersey, where it resulted in one fatality and widespread flooding.
Why it matters: This storm is a stark reminder of the power of early-season nor’easters, which can bring heavy rains, strong winds, and hazardous conditions, especially along coastal areas.
The storm inundated parts of the East Coast, particularly New Jersey, on September 27, 2026.
Emergency officials reported one death linked to the storm, a 56-year-old man in Brooklyn killed by a falling tree.
Coastal flood warnings were lifted for northeastern New Jersey and southeastern New York, but flood warnings remain for some rivers in New Jersey and Massachusetts.
Governor Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey warned residents to remain vigilant as conditions could be treacherous through Monday's high tide.
Driving the news: The nor’easter lingered off New Jersey, buffeting the region with strong winds and rain, prompting emergency responses across multiple states.
Strong winds caused waist-deep water surges onshore, damaging dunes in Atlantic City and Brigantine.
Utility crews worked through the weekend to restore power, with many communities seeing service restored by Sunday afternoon.
Wind gusts reached up to 81 mph at Montauk Point on Long Island, contributing to widespread power outages.
By Sunday evening, nearly 23,200 customers in New Jersey remained without power, down from around 68,000 earlier that day.
State of play: The storm's impact varied across the region, with some areas experiencing severe flooding and others facing power outages.
Parts of southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island recorded rainfall totals between 4 to 6 inches, with isolated reports of up to 7 inches.
Central and southern New Jersey saw rainfall of 2 to 4 inches, with several coastal areas reporting 4 inches.
New York City experienced just over 2 inches of rain by Sunday afternoon, contributing to localized flooding.
Coastal flooding was reported in areas like East Rockaway and Island Park, with more expected during high tide cycles.
The big picture: The storm is part of a larger weather pattern influenced by a developing El Niño, which may lead to more frequent storms along the East Coast this season.
This is likely the first of several storms driven by the El Niño phenomenon, which can alter weather patterns globally.
Historically, El Niño years see an increase in nor’easters along the East Coast, potentially leading to more severe winter storms.
As the storm weakens, it is expected to drift north, easing the most severe conditions by Monday.
Surfers along the coast have embraced the storm's waves, describing conditions as the best of the season.
What they're saying: Officials and residents alike have expressed concern about the storm's impact and the potential for future weather events.
Governor Sherrill stated, "We’re not out of the woods just yet," urging residents to remain cautious.
Local residents reported dramatic changes to their coastal environments, with one saying, "This is not what it looked like yesterday. This is actually even worse."
Surfers expressed excitement over the storm's waves, with one noting, "This swell is like Christmas morning," highlighting the dual nature of such storms.
Experts warn that as the colder months approach, more erosion and damage could occur due to additional nor’easters.
By the numbers: The storm's impact can be quantified through various metrics, showing the extent of its damage and disruption.
Over 30,000 power outages were reported at the storm's peak in New Jersey.
Rainfall totals varied widely, with southeastern Massachusetts receiving up to 7 inches and New York City recording just over 2 inches.
Wind gusts reached as high as 81 mph in some areas, contributing to widespread destruction.
Utility crews restored power to nearly 180,000 homes across New Jersey by Sunday afternoon.
What's next: As the storm weakens, recovery efforts will ramp up across the affected areas.
Utility companies will continue to work on restoring power to remaining customers, with many areas still experiencing outages.
Coastal communities will assess damage and begin planning for necessary repairs and beach replenishment efforts.
Residents are advised to prepare for potential flooding during subsequent high tides as the storm continues to affect local conditions.
Forecasters will monitor the situation closely, providing updates on any new developments as the storm moves away from the coast.