Eastern Storm Brings Heavy Rain, Strong Winds, and Lake-Effect Snow
A powerful storm system is moving through the eastern United States, bringing the potential for localized flooding, damaging winds, and significant lake-effect snow through Wednesday night.
Key Threats
Heavy Rainfall
- Travel Impacts: Widespread rain will disrupt road and air travel across the Northeast through Wednesday evening.
- Flooding Risk: Heavy rainfall could lead to localized flooding, especially in urban areas and spots with poor drainage.
- Hotspots: New England faces the highest flood risk, with rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches possible. Minor river flooding may occur due to a combination of heavy rain and melting snow.
Strong Winds
- Wind Gusts: The storm will bring gusts of 50 to 60 mph, particularly from Long Island to eastern New England, including the Boston and Providence metro areas.
- Power Outages: High winds could knock down trees and power lines, causing outages.
- Severe Weather: A few severe thunderstorms, potentially producing tornadoes, are possible from the Southeast coast to coastal southern New England, particularly in eastern North Carolina.
Snowfall
- Lake-Effect Snow: As colder air arrives, heavy lake-effect snow will develop, particularly in the Great Lakes region.
- Accumulations: Snow belts near Lakes Erie and Ontario, including areas south of Buffalo, could see over a foot of snow by early Friday.
- Travel Conditions: Dangerous or impossible travel is expected in these areas due to heavy snow and strong winds.
Looking Ahead
- Thursday Outlook: Gusty winds and colder temperatures will continue across the Northeast.
- Precautions: Residents in affected areas should monitor local forecasts, avoid unnecessary travel, and prepare for potential power outages and hazardous conditions.
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