Nor'easter storm brings coastal flooding, as New York and New Jersey declare emergency

A powerful nor'easter swept across the northeastern United States on September 26, 2026, prompting New York and New Jersey to declare states of emergency as coastal flooding, power outages, travel disruptions and event cancellations mounted. The storm, which peaked on Saturday, was described by the US National Weather Service (NWS) as bringing “unsafe coastal flooding and surf conditions, strong winds, and heavy rainfall” to regions that include New York City and Boston. Rain and gusty winds are forecast from Virginia to Maine. Officials in both states warned residents to take the threat seriously. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill urged, “I impulse each New Jerseyans to instrumentality this tempest seriously, enactment alert, and travel section guidance.” In New York City, Mayor Zohran Mamdani told residents via video, “Don't question if you don't person to,” adding, “Do not thrust oregon locomotion done floodwater.” The NWS also issued an alert advising the public to “Prepare instantly for important inundation in low-lying areas adjacent the shore, including roads underwater and impacts to homes and businesses.” Power outages have already affected nearly 150,000 households, according to poweroutageus. The Federal Aviation Administration advised travelers to verify flight status with airlines; FlightAware reported more than 1,100 delays and another 400 cancellations. Coastal communities in New Jersey felt the impact immediately. Streets and homes in Surf City and Manasquan were inundated on Saturday, with images showing residents navigating flooded roads by kayak. Several high‑profile events were called off. Ed Sheeran’s scheduled Boston concert at Gillette Stadium was cancelled for safety reasons, the venue said. The Red Sox postponed their Sunday day game against the Chicago Cubs to a later Friday. A Major League Soccer match between Red Bull New York and St Louis City SC was also scrapped, and the Global Citizen Festival in New York’s Central Park—set to feature Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean and John Legend—will not proceed. Authorities continue to monitor the storm’s progression and urge the public to heed local warnings and avoid travel through flooded areas.