'Blockbuster' nor'easter with hurricane-like eye is set to hammer 12 US states with deadly flooding this weekend

From the Newshound archive · first published 24 September 2026 · last updated 25 September 2026.

A rapidly intensifying nor'easter with a hurricane-like eye is forecast to batter the US East Coast from Friday into Saturday, bringing coastal flooding, winds exceeding 70 mph and widespread power cuts for millions of residents from North Carolina to Maine. AccuWeather chief meteorologist Jon Porter said the storm 'may be remembered for its destructive coastal flooding and severe beach erosion, especially along eastern Long Island and the Massachusetts coast.' New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani called on coastal residents to move their cars to higher ground and secure any outdoor items ahead of Friday evening's strengthening winds.

The storm arrives during a full moon, driving water levels as much as six feet above average tide in the worst-affected areas.

New England will bear the brunt of the rainfall — four to eight inches are expected across Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and southern Maine.

New York emergency chief Christina Farrell warned: 'Never drive or walk through floodwater, and never go around traffic barricades.'