Wed May 21 23:10:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Northeast Braces for Rare May Nor’easter, Threatening Memorial Day Weekend Plans**

NEW YORK – A late-season nor’easter is poised to deliver a soggy blow to the Northeast, bringing widespread rain and strong winds to major cities like New York and Philadelphia just ahead of the Memorial Day weekend. The storm, impacting the region on Thursday, will feel like a step back in time, ushering in unseasonably cool and damp conditions.

The FOX Forecast Center reports that the system, characterized by a low-pressure area with strong northeasterly winds off the Atlantic, will bring steady, and at times heavy, rain from the New York City tri-state area through New England. Rainfall totals are expected to range from 1 to 2 inches, with higher amounts possible in elevated areas and along the coast. While flash flooding is not anticipated, wind gusts could exceed 40 mph, potentially causing delays at major Northeast airports, especially in Boston.

“The Big Apple is in for the worst of it Thursday, with heavy rain and strong winds”

The storm already made its presence known Wednesday evening, as severe storms swept through western Pennsylvania, triggering Tornado Watches and a few radar-indicated Tornado Warnings. Reports indicate some flooded streets in Pittsburgh and wind damage to the south.

Beyond the rain, the nor’easter will also bring a surge to coastal water levels. A 1.5- to 2.5-foot water rise is possible, potentially leading to minor coastal flooding during Thursday evening’s high tide from the Jersey Shore to southern Maine.

Temperatures will plummet well below average, with New York City expected to reach highs only in the mid-50s on Wednesday and Thursday – nearly 20 degrees below normal for late May.

Despite the gloomy forecast for Thursday, there is good news for the holiday weekend. Most of the Northeast is expected to dry out by Saturday and Sunday, with sunshine returning to coastal areas. While some lingering showers may persist in the interior, Sunday and Memorial Day are predicted to be dry, albeit cool, with highs in the 60s.

MTA crews in New York City are taking precautions, placing yellow trench covers over vented grates to prevent subway flooding. Residents are urged to monitor weather updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe during the storm.

Read More