Entertainment
Intense Nor’Easter Could Bring Coastal Flooding and Damaging Winds
The nor’easter storm is expected to “bomb out,” bringing heavy, wet snow as far as the Midwest.
Hang onto your hats and scarves, because there’s a new intense winter storm coming our way at the end of this week. The storm, named Riley, is expected to develop Thursday night off the Northeast coast and “bomb out,” eventually becoming a nor’easter storm, forecasters say.
What is a nor’easter?
A nor’easter is a storm defined by its strong northeast wind, according to The Weather Channel. As you might assume by the name, it usually occurs off the East Coast, and it most frequently happens during the winter months. A nor’easter storm can bring heavy rain, snow, and strong winds to places in its path. Big cities near the coast, like Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. are typically the most vulnerable to damage from storms like these. Not the best way for us to kick off the first month of “spring,” is it?
In the case of Winter Storm Riley specifically, the East Coast is at risk for coastal flooding, beach erosion, and damaging winds. Starting Thursday night, the storm is expected to go through bombogenesis — or “bomb out” with a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure — transforming it into an intense nor’easter. As if the strength alone wasn’t bad enough, this nor’easter storm is also expected to move very slowly and could last until the weekend. And just when we thought the weather was starting to get better!
Does a nor’easter storm only affect the coast?
Although coastal areas are definitely the most at risk for damage during a nor’easter, you don’t need to live close by the water to be affected. In the case of Winter Storm Riley, heavy and wet snow is expected in the inner regions of the Northeast, as well as the Great Lakes areas in the Midwest. Meanwhile, high wind warnings and power outage risks stretch as far as West Virginia and Tennessee. Yikes! We guess this storm really is “bombing out.”
If you live in any of those regions, now is a great time to tune into your local weather forecast to be sure you’re prepared. In the meantime, let’s cross our fingers that the rest of March weather treats us a little better!
Next, learn easy ways to warm up a cold home quickly in the video below:
More from FIRST
The Flu Is Literally Spreading Like Wildfire, Study Finds
Sickweather App Helps You Avoid Areas Where Many People Are Sick
