Boston could see its first nor’easter of the season this weekend, with rain, gusty winds, rough surf and possible coastal flooding in the forecast. Wind gusts could exceed 40 miles-per-hour and parts of the state could see over 5 inches of rain.
The Weather Channel reports that a low-pressure system moving north along the East Coast may interact with high pressure near the Great Lakes, strengthening northeast winds across New England. While the storm’s exact track and intensity remain uncertain, forecasters say unsettled weather could build late this week, with several inches of rain possible in parts of the region.
Th wind is expected to pick up on Friday, with much of the rain taking place Friday through Sunday, but the predictions are subject to change.
A track closer to shore could bring stronger winds, heavier rainfall, larger waves and increased beach erosion. A farther-offshore path would limit the severity of those impacts. Either way, coastal residents should prepare for rough conditions, potential travel delays and isolated power outages.
Despite the name, a nor’easter does not have to bring snow. The term refers to winds blowing from the northeast; with temperatures still mild, this system is expected to bring rain.