New Jersey | Environment
Why It Matters
A developing nor’easter has brought dangerous flooding and widespread power outages to the U.S. East Coast, affecting tens of millions of residents across multiple states.
What Happened
Coastal communities in New Jersey faced significant inundation on Friday night, Sept. 25, 2026, as the first major signs of a nor’easter took shape. Water flooded streets and entered some homes in Surf City, prompting local officials to issue warnings for extended street flooding.
In Manasquan, located 34 miles from Surf City, Mayor Mike Mangan stated he expected significant street flooding for an extended period. The city issued a voluntary evacuation order for low-lying areas as water levels rose.
Further north, Sea Bright officials prepared for severe conditions. Mayor Brian Kelly stated the town is bracing for winds up to 50 mph and flooding up to 6 feet deep on some streets. Officials expect flooding in Sea Bright to start Saturday and worsen by midday. Mayor Kelly compared the potential severity of the flooding to Hurricane Irene, which struck the region in 2011.
The town of Sea Bright announced it would open its recreation center to serve as a shelter for evacuees. Thousands of residents across the U.S. East Coast lost power on Friday night as the storm system intensified.
By the Numbers
50 mph — Expected wind speed in Sea Bright, New Jersey
6 feet — Potential flooding depth on some streets in Sea Bright
60 to 65 mph — Peak wind gusts expected on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket
More than 200 — Number of flights canceled Friday across Boston, Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, and New York
Zoom Out
The storm has disrupted transportation and events across the Northeast. Dozens of flights to Boston, Nantucket, and Martha’s Vineyard were canceled on Friday and Saturday. Several airlines waived change or cancellation fees for some East Coast flights through the weekend.
Ferry service between Cape Cod and the islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard experienced widespread cancellations on Friday. Ferries to Block Island, Rhode Island, were also canceled. Sean Driscoll stated ferry disruptions are expected to continue into Saturday.
Entertainment events faced similar interruptions. Ed Sheeran canceled Friday and Saturday shows at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The Boston Red Sox moved their Sunday game against the Chicago Cubs to Friday to create a split doubleheader ahead of the storm’s peak.
Meteorologist Matthew Belk noted that leaves on trees increase wind resistance and raise the risk of downed limbs. High winds in southeastern Connecticut and eastern Long Island may down tree limbs and power lines, compounding the outage issues already affecting thousands of customers.
What’s Next
Wind gusts along the Atlantic coasts of New Jersey and Delaware could reach 60 mph. Around Boston, wind speeds are expected to be 50 to 55 mph, while inland areas may see gusts of 35 to 40 mph.
Residents in affected areas are taking precautions. Ashley Destino secured her boat and prepared a generator in Gloucester, Massachusetts, ahead of the storm’s arrival.