Major Nor'easter affecting New England

The National Weather Service is forecasting a major nor'easter to affect much of New England today and tomorrow. You are probably wondering what a nor'easter is though because we do not get them in Louisiana.

A nor'easter is a powerful low pressure that affects New England and the mid-Atlantic states. They can bring heavy snow and rain. They also cause extreme winds that can exceed hurricane force (>74 MPH). Because the winds are so strong, they bring high waves and even storm surges. In short, it is tropical storm or weak hurricane with snow and/or cold rain.

Rain or snow totals are expected to top five inches over portions of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine. Also, sustained winds of around 30 MPH are expected along with wind gusts to 60 MPH.

In addition to rain, snow, and winds, strong easterly winds are expected to cause significant storm surges in New York Harbor, as well as along the coasts of Long Island, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Maine.

Informational Links:

• Stephen's Weather Center - weather for Long Island
• NOAA - New York City, NY
• NOAA - Boston, MA
• NOAA - Portland, ME
• NOAA - Caribou, ME