US braces for dangerous weekend: what is happening
A powerful nor'easter has slammed the East Coast of the United States, causing flooding, widespread power outages, and transportation chaos. New Jersey and Delaware have been particularly hard hit. Authorities warn that the worst is yet to come and recommend evacuation.
A powerful nor'easter slammed the East Coast of the United States on Friday evening, causing widespread power outages, flooding of coastal streets, and transportation chaos. Tens of millions of people were in the storm's path. New Jersey and Delaware were particularly hard hit. In the coastal town of Surf City, water flooded not only roads but also homes. Manasquan Mayor Mike Mangan warned that water would remain on the streets for a long time and urged residents of low-lying areas to take advantage of voluntary evacuation. In Sea Bright, wind gusts of up to 50 mph and water levels of up to 6 feet are expected. The city's mayor, Brian Kelly, compared the upcoming storm to Hurricane Irene of 2011. On Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket, wind gusts of 60-65 mph were recorded. Meteorologist Matthew Belk explained that the trees have not yet shed their leaves, which increases wind resistance and causes trunks and branches to fall on power lines. On Friday alone, over 200 flights were canceled at airports in Boston, New York, and the islands, with hundreds more cancellations recorded for Saturday. Ferry service between Cape Cod and the islands has virtually stopped. The National Weather Service warns that dangerous conditions will persist throughout the weekend.