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Uncovering the Impact: Post-Tropical Cyclone Ophelia’s Heavy Rain Devastates the Northeast

Overview:
Post-tropical cyclone Ophelia, previously a menacing hurricane, has now transitioned into a rain-drenching tempest. This weather phenomenon, despite being downgraded, continues to wreak havoc across the Northeast, causing concerns for flash floods, power outages, and coastal disruptions.

Is Ophelia Still a Threat?

Ophelia

As of the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center, Ophelia, now a post-tropical cyclone, remains a concern along the Mid-Atlantic coast. Stretching from Washington, D.C. to New York, this region is on alert for the possibility of flash floods. Some areas in the Mid-Atlantic to southern New England are expected to receive between 1 and 3 inches of rainfall.

> "The swells generated by Ophelia will likely continue to produce life-threatening surf and rip current conditions along the East Coast."

Coastal Impact and Flooding

Ophelia targets Northeast after coastal flooding reported in mid-Atlantic

Coastal areas, especially those along the Chesapeake Bay, remain susceptible to flooding, with tidal waters causing concerns. Heavy rain from Ophelia also poses a risk of flash flooding extending from Virginia to New Jersey.

> "Floods have become more frequent and severe in most of the U.S. due to more extreme precipitation and sea level rise from climate change."

Power Outages and State of Emergency

The aftermath of Ophelia includes significant power outages, affecting thousands of customers in Maryland and Pennsylvania. Nearly 8,000 customers in Maryland and 4,700 customers in Pennsylvania were without power on Sunday afternoon.

> "On Friday, the governors of Maryland, North Carolina, and Virginia declared a state of emergency."

Landfall and Record Rainfall

Tropical Storm Ophelia makes landfall in North Carolina, bringing damaging winds and dangerous water surges

Ophelia made landfall near Emerald Isle, N.C., with maximum winds of 70 mph, resulting in significant damage. As it moved inland, central North Carolina witnessed winds of 20 to 25 mph, leading to downed trees and more power outages.

> "In Raleigh, Ophelia dumped over 3 inches of rain on Saturday, breaking the area’s daily record set in 1906 by more than an inch."

Extensive Rainfall in the Region

Rainfall records were shattered in several areas, with Fuquay-Varina, a town south of Raleigh, receiving nearly 5 inches of rainfall. Parts of central and southern Virginia also accumulated between 3 and 5 inches of rainfall over the weekend.

Coastal Areas on High Alert

Ophelia targets Northeast after coastal flooding reported in mid-Atlantic

A coastal flood advisory was issued for the Delaware beaches until 9 p.m. ET, with expectations of over a foot of rising water near shorelines and tidal waterways.

In conclusion, post-tropical cyclone Ophelia has brought heavy rain, flooding, and power outages to the Northeast. Residents in the affected regions are urged to remain vigilant and stay informed about the ongoing weather conditions.

Stay safe, and stay prepared for the impacts of Post-tropical cyclone Ophelia unleashing heavy rain across Northeast.

Impacts of Climate Change

Is Storm Ophelia a post-tropical cyclone?

Storm Ophelia, once a formidable hurricane, has undergone a transformation. Now classified as a post-tropical cyclone, it continues to exert its influence along the U.S. East Coast. As it advances along the Atlantic Coast, Ophelia’s impact is characterized by persistent rain and winds. This change in classification signifies a shift in its behavior and potential hazards, with the potential to affect regions along its path.

Will Tropical Storm Ophelia hit New Jersey?

Tropical Storm Ophelia is on a trajectory that raises concerns for New Jersey residents. This storm, which originally made landfall near Emerald Isle, N.C., has since continued its path northward. As it moves, it brings with it a range of potential hazards, including high gusts, coastal flooding, and life-threatening rip currents. New Jersey, therefore, remains on alert as Ophelia’s impact could extend to this region over the weekend.

Where is Tropical Storm Ophelia in North Carolina?

Currently, Tropical Storm Ophelia is making its presence felt along the eastern coast of North Carolina. The impact is evident as the ocean is churned up, with high gusts, coastal flooding, and life-threatening rip currents affecting areas like Wrightsville Beach in Wilmington, N.C. Ophelia’s trajectory and intensifying conditions in eastern North Carolina are cause for concern, not only for this region but also for areas further north, such as New Jersey, where its effects are expected over the weekend.

How much rain will Ophelia cause?

In the areas affected by Ophelia, rainfall is expected to range between one and three inches. This precipitation forecast, however, is accompanied by a grave warning from forecasters. They caution that, in addition to the rain, much of the East Coast will also experience life-threatening surf and rip currents throughout the weekend. Ophelia’s impact extends beyond rain, making it essential for residents to remain vigilant.

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