A nor’easter building off the mid-Atlantic coast is expected to bring a prolonged period of strong winds and rainfall this weekend, according to the National Weather Service in New York.
The low pressure system will strengthen and deepen over the next day as it tracks up the East Coast towards Long Island.
Total rainfall Friday through Sunday looks to be 3-4″ across central and eastern Long Island and 1-3″ elsewhere, with lower amounts west of the region.
Coastal flood warnings have been issued for a large portion of the coastline to cover multiple high tide cycles from Friday night through Sunday.
The worst coastal flooding is expected Saturday into Sunday. The full moon on Saturday will lead to high astronomical tides, which in combination with surge will lead to widespread moderate to major flooding for multiple high tide cycles.
One to two feet of inundation above ground level are expected in vulnerable areas near the waterfront and shoreline.
The nor’easter will also bring strong winds to the area. Northeast-north winds will gradually increase Friday morning and afternoon, with peak winds Friday night through Saturday night, the weather service said. Peak wind speeds will be 20-25 mph with higher localized speeds around 35 mph. Wind gusts will peak around 40-50 mph with localized higher gusts nearing 55 mph. Winds will gradually diminish through Sunday into Sunday night as the nor`easter weakens over or near the area, according to the forecast.
Riverhead police warn that widespread flooding is possible in vulnerable areas near the waterfront and shoreline, including roads, parking lots, parks, lawns, and homes and businesses with basements near the water. Numerous road closures are likely, and vehicles parked in flood-prone areas may become flooded, police said. Flooding may also extend inland along tidal rivers and bays.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor objects. Officials said downed trees and power outages are likely. Report an outage and receive status updates by texting OUT to PSEGLI (773454), or via the PSEG Long Island mobile app or PSEG’s website at psegliny.com/outages.
High tide times for Riverhead, according to the advisory, are:
- Saturday: 12:04 a.m., 12:21 p.m.
- Sunday: 12:42 a.m., 12:59 p.m.
- Monday: 1:23 a.m., 1:40 p.m.
In an emergency, residents should dial 911. For non-emergencies, call the Riverhead Police Department at 631-727-4500.
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