Introduction to the Storms
A nor’easter churned its way up the East Coast on Sunday, washing out roads and prompting air travel delays as heavily populated areas of the Northeast experienced excessive rain, lashing winds and coastal flooding. Across the continent in western Alaska, the remnants of Typhoon Halong brought hurricane-force winds and catastrophic flooding to coastal communities where entire houses were pushed off their foundations.
In response to the severe weather conditions, the U.S. Coast Guard was headed to tiny Alaskan villages to respond to “reports of persons in distress,” the state Department of Public Safety said in a statement.
Alaska Flooding
Situation in Alaskan Villages
More than 170 people stayed overnight at a community shelter in Kipnuk, where the water level rose overnight 6.6 feet (2 meters) above the highest tide. At least 8 homes were washed away, the department said. Roads and boardwalks were inundated and power lines were damaged in Bethel, Napaskiak, Napakiak, and other Yukon-Kuskokwim communities.
Governor’s Response
“Every effort will be made to help those hit by this storm. Help is on the way,” said Governor Mike Dunleavy. The state is working to provide assistance to the affected communities, with a focus on ensuring the safety of those in distress.
East Coast Nor’easter
Water Rescues and Flooding
Floodwaters could rise from the Carolinas north to New Jersey, forecasters warned. “The greatest effects are going to be the coastal flooding potential,” said meteorologist Bob Oravec with the National Weather Service in College Park, Maryland. Heavy rain also was forecast for southeast New England, the New York City area, and some has fallen in coastal sections farther down the coast, Oravec said.
Damage in the Outer Banks
In North Carolina’s Outer Banks, an area that’s seen significant storm damage this season, ocean overwash was coming across Highway 12 at a motel near Buxton, the Dare County Sheriff’s Office posted online Sunday. The office urged travelers to be cautious and put property owners on alert as high tide approached. The waves were ferocious at the Hatteras Island town of Buxton, where a number of beachfront homes have fallen into the water in recent weeks. One house was losing its pilings Sunday and appeared close to collapsing.
Flooding in South Carolina
Flooding was widespread down the coast in Georgetown County, South Carolina, where several motorists had to be rescued when rising waters inundated their cars, Emergency Services Director Brandon Ellis told the Post and Courier on Sunday. The weather service said parts of the county had received up to seven inches (18 centimeters) of rain. Further south in Charleston, South Carolina, many streets downtown were closed because of flooding.
Emergency Declarations
New Jersey and Long Island
All of New Jersey has been under a state of emergency since Saturday night. It’s expected to last into Monday, authorizing the state’s emergency services personnel to be activated as necessary. On Long Island, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman declared a state of emergency Sunday because of the chance high ocean waves may push water into bays and waterways. Parts of the state are forecast to experience moderate to major coastal flooding, inland flash flooding, winds up to 60 mph (97 kph), up to 5 inches (about 13 centimeters) of rain and high surf, potentially causing beach erosion.
New York City and Surroundings
The National Weather Service placed New York City, Long Island and southern Westchester County under a coastal flood warning and wind advisory through at least Monday afternoon. Coastal areas of suburban Long Island could see flooding, with up to 3 inches (about 8 centimeters) of rain and high winds, the weather service said. Wind gusts of more than 30 mph (48 kph) were already being recorded in the region on Sunday morning. Utilities in the area have added more than 1,600 workers to respond to the storm.
Conclusion
The severe weather conditions affecting both the East Coast and Alaska have resulted in significant damage and disruption to the lives of many. The emergency declarations in New Jersey and the response efforts in Alaska underscore the seriousness of the situation. As the storms continue to impact these regions, it is crucial for residents to follow safety guidelines and for authorities to provide timely assistance.
FAQs
- Q: What is the extent of the damage in Alaska?
A: In Alaska, at least 8 homes were washed away in Kipnuk, with significant flooding and damage to roads and power lines in other communities. - Q: Which areas on the East Coast are most affected?
A: The nor’easter is affecting areas from the Carolinas to New Jersey, with significant damage and flooding reported in North Carolina’s Outer Banks and Georgetown County, South Carolina. - Q: What measures are being taken in response to the storms?
A: Emergency declarations have been made in New Jersey and parts of Long Island, with utility companies adding workers to respond to the storm. The U.S. Coast Guard is also responding to distress calls in Alaskan villages. - Q: When is the storm expected to pass?
A: The storm is expected to move out by Monday night.
