PORTLAND, Maine — The East Coast of the United States is bracing for a tumultuous period of adverse weather conditions that are anticipated to be characterized by heavy rain, strong winds, and potential hazards, influenced by an atmospheric river and the formation of a bomb cyclone.
This incoming storm is predicted to unleash significant rainfall and harsh winds across several regions from Tuesday evening through Wednesday evening, raising concerns about possible flooding in various locations, according to meteorologists. Utilities are preparing for the risk of power outages that may arise from winds that could reach over 60 mph (97 kph) in certain areas.
A major contributor to this severe weather event is an atmospheric river — a lengthy band of moisture that can transport tropical moisture northward. Derek Schroeter, a forecaster at the National Weather Service in Gray, Maine, emphasized the storm’s potential impact on New England, noting that it could draw moisture from the Atlantic Ocean, particularly near the Southeast U.S. This moisture influx could lead to conditions in places like western Maine, including freezing rain, heavy rain, unexpectedly high temperatures, and damaging winds all within a single day, leading to predictions of two to three inches of rainfall in some regions.
Similar storm-related conditions are anticipated elsewhere in the region during the same timeframe. “We are expecting slick travel conditions on Tuesday evening due to freezing rain,” said Schroeter. He also indicated that there would be a watchful eye on the possibility of flash flooding and rapid water level increases in streams as temperatures rise into the 50s (10-15 Celsius).
Meteorologists also noted that the storm may undergo bombogenesis — the rapid intensification of a cyclone — which can contribute to severe rainfall. Preparations for inclement weather have already begun in parts of the Northeast. In Maine, several schools operated on delayed schedules on Tuesday, following an initial dusting of a few inches of snow. Additionally, Vermont issued a flood watch effective from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday morning.
Montpelier, the capital of Vermont, has been proactive in advising residents to prepare for possible flooding by elevating items in basements and other low-lying areas susceptible to water accumulation. City officials reported that they have been in communication with the National Weather Service and Vermont Dam Safety, ensuring continuous monitoring of river levels as the storm progresses.
Ski resorts in the Northeast are also preparing for the storm’s effects and have cautioned visitors about the challenging conditions expected on Wednesday. Stratton Mountain Resort in southern Vermont alerted guests via its website to come equipped with waterproof gear, stating, “It’s going to be a wet one.”
