Snowstorm warning across US East Coast, over 1,500 flights cancelled, flood risk rises

Washington (The Uttam Hindu): A powerful winter storm is expected to hit the eastern coast of the United States, prompting authorities to issue blizzard warnings in several major cities, including New York City and Boston. Heavy snowfall, strong winds and possible coastal flooding are forecast, leading to the cancellation of more than 1,500 flights.

Weather officials said a low-pressure system forming in the southeastern region is moving toward the mid-Atlantic coast and is expected to intensify rapidly as it travels northeast along the coastline. The developing storm is likely to bring heavy snowfall across the northern mid-Atlantic and northeastern regions, creating severe weather conditions from Sunday to Monday.

Forecasts indicate snowfall rates may exceed one inch per hour at times, with total accumulation expected to reach one to two feet in several areas. These conditions could severely disrupt travel and make road movement extremely difficult.

Blizzard-like conditions are expected in coastal regions stretching from Delaware to southeastern New England. Strong winds with gusts between 40 and 70 miles per hour may significantly reduce visibility and make travel dangerous.

Experts have also warned that the combination of heavy wet snow and strong winds could lead to scattered power outages. Coastal areas face the additional risk of flooding, with roads and low-lying properties likely to be affected.

Such powerful winter storms frequently occur along the Atlantic coast during February, when cold continental air interacts with relatively warmer ocean waters, often resulting in severe weather.