A Nor'easter will create hazardous marine and coastal conditions along the Mid Atlantic coast through mid week, with significant coastal flooding and beach erosion possible. Officials say high tides and onshore winds will combine with strong waves to elevate water levels and threaten low lying shoreline areas.
Coastal communities should prepare for storm driven waves and rising water on beaches and coastal roads. Emergency managers are monitoring the situation and advising residents in flood prone locations to consider protective measures and move valued property to higher ground when practical.
Warnings Watches And Forecasts
The National Weather Service defines a flood watch as a notice that conditions are favorable for flooding but does not mean flooding will occur. A clear distinction exists between a flood watch and a flood warning. The National Weather Service says a flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or already occurring, and people should take action.
The agency also outlines related categories. A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring and requires immediate movement to high ground. Flash floods can develop in minutes to hours and sometimes occur where rain is not falling locally. A flood advisory is used when flooding is expected to be a nuisance but not severe enough to warrant a warning.
Flash flood warnings are being transitioned to an impact based format to improve public response, the National Weather Service says. That change aims to give clearer information about expected impacts and to help communities better prioritize protective actions.
Forecasters also note a separate strong storm system is forecast to bring high winds and heavy precipitation to portions of southern Alaska. Elsewhere, relatively benign weather is expected through the first half of the work week, reducing immediate flood risk beyond the Mid Atlantic and southern Alaska threats.
