Credited from: LEMONDE
A powerful nor'easter has pounded the northeastern United States, bringing heavy rain and strong winds starting Saturday, resulting in extensive flooding and power outages. As of Saturday afternoon, authorities reported that over 95,000 customers were without power across several states including New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania according to SCMP and Le Monde.
The storm has also caused significant disruptions to travel, forcing the cancellation of more than 400 flights. Boston's Logan Airport alone experienced the cancellation of 253 flights, as major airlines including JetBlue, United, and American issued travel alerts allowing for changes without fees, according to Al Jazeera and SCMP.
As conditions worsened, New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared states of emergency in New York City and other areas affected by the storm. "Conditions are extremely dangerous. Anyone who goes in or near the water this weekend is literally gambling with their life," she cautioned during a press briefing, emphasizing the severity of the flooding and high winds expected in the coming days according to Le Monde and Al Jazeera.
Reports indicate that some areas, especially on Long Island, could see as much as six inches (15 cm) of rain over the next few days, while wave heights could reach up to 20 feet (6 meters), creating hazardous coastal conditions. This unprecedented weather has led to the cancellation of major cultural events, including concerts by Ed Sheeran in Massachusetts, reflecting the storm's broad impact on daily life and public activities according to Le Monde and SCMP.
The National Weather Service has issued several warnings for continued high winds, flooding, and storm surges, advising residents to avoid any areas prone to flooding. Some people have ignored these warnings, with reports of individuals kayaking on flooded streets, which underscores the mixed responses to the severe weather conditions as outlined by Al Jazeera and Le Monde.