A developing Atlantic storm could bring rain, gusty winds and rough coastal conditions to parts of New York later this week and into the weekend, with forecasters continuing to monitor whether the system develops into a nor'easter.
While details remain uncertain, current forecasts indicate the primary window for possible impacts in New York is from Friday through Sunday.
When could the storm affect New York?
Forecasters expect the storm to move northward along the East Coast later this week.
For New York, impacts could begin arriving Friday, with periods of rain, increasing winds and deteriorating coastal conditions possible through the weekend.
Exactly when the heaviest rain and strongest winds occur will depend on the storm's track and intensity, both of which remain uncertain.
Potential timeline for New York
Thursday
- Little direct impact is expected across most of New York.
- Coastal areas could begin seeing rougher surf and an increased risk of dangerous rip currents.
Friday
- Rain chances increase across parts of downstate New York.
- Winds may strengthen along the coast.
- Ocean conditions could become hazardous for swimmers and boaters.
Saturday
- Periods of rain and gusty winds remain possible.
- Coastal impacts, including rough surf, beach erosion and localized flooding, could occur if the storm tracks close to the coast.
Sunday
- Unsettled weather may continue, depending on the storm's track and speed.
- Breezy conditions and periods of rain remain possible.
Which parts of New York could see the greatest impacts?
Based on current forecasts, coastal areas face the greatest risk if the storm strengthens and moves close enough to the shoreline.
Areas that could see the most significant coastal impacts include:
- Long Island
- New York City waterfront communities
- Other Atlantic-facing shorelines
Farther inland, impacts would likely be limited to periods of rain and breezy conditions.
Forecast remains subject to change
Meteorologists caution that forecast confidence remains limited because the storm is still developing offshore.
Even small shifts in the storm's path could affect rainfall totals, wind speeds and coastal impacts across New York.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts from the National Weather Service and AccuWeather as confidence increases in the storm's track and strength.
What is a nor'easter?
According to the National Weather Service, a nor'easter is a large coastal storm associated with strong northeast winds. Nor'easters can occur at any time of year and may produce heavy rain, strong winds, rough surf, coastal flooding and beach erosion.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: When could nor'easter affect New York? Here's the latest timing forecast
