A strengthening September nor'easter is expected to bring gusty winds, periods of rain, rough surf and coastal flooding to parts of New York through the weekend, with the greatest impacts forecast for Long Island and other coastal communities.
The storm was strengthening off the East Coast early Friday before turning toward New England. Forecasters expect the strongest winds and heaviest rain from Friday night through Saturday night across Long Island, Connecticut and southeastern New England.
While the worst of the storm is expected to remain east of New York City, forecasters warn that coastal flooding, high surf and strong winds could still affect downstate New York through Sunday.
When will the storm affect New York?
Windy conditions are expected Friday, with rain becoming more
widespread Friday night.
Rain, strong winds and coastal flooding threats are expected to continue through Saturday and Sunday before conditions gradually improve early next week.
AccuWeather forecasts windy weather and periods of rain across New York City this weekend, with lingering showers possible into Monday.
What is the latest forecast?
Long Island is expected to see New York's most significant impacts.
Forecasters warn that persistent onshore winds could lead to coastal flooding, especially during high-tide cycles. Portions of Long Island's shoreline face the greatest risk of flooding and beach erosion.
Rainfall totals are generally expected to range from 1 to 2 inches across much of the region, with higher amounts possible closer to the coast and across parts of southern New England.
The National Weather Service had multiple coastal flood, wind and marine alerts in effect early Friday across portions of southeastern New York and nearby coastal waters.
In New York City, the storm is expected to bring windy conditions and periods of rain, but forecasters say the heaviest rain and strongest winds should remain east of the city.
Coastal flooding remains a major concern
Coastal flooding is expected around times of high tide as strong northeast winds push ocean water toward the shoreline.
Forecasters say the highest tides are expected this weekend, raising concerns for flooding in vulnerable coastal areas and back bays. Large waves and dangerous surf are also expected along Atlantic beaches.
Beach erosion is likely in some locations, particularly on eastern Long Island, where forecasters say the combination of strong winds, high surf and elevated water levels could cause the most significant impacts.
Why this storm is unusual
Nor'easters are most common during the fall and winter months, but major September events are relatively uncommon.
Forecasters continue to stress that even small changes in the storm's track could affect where the heaviest rain, strongest winds and worst coastal flooding occur. New Yorkers are encouraged to monitor the latest forecasts and advisories throughout the weekend.
Contributing: USA Today Network
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: New York nor'easter forecast: Timing, rain, wind and coastal flooding threats
