A powerful nor’easter is forecast to impact the East Coast from Maine to Washington, DC, prompting state officials in New York and New Jersey to declare states of emergency in anticipation of flooding, strong winds, and heavy rainfall. The declarations cover several counties expected to experience the storm’s most severe effects, including New York City.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul urged residents to take the approaching storm seriously, emphasizing preparedness as authorities issued warnings of potential hazards. The National Weather Service predicted wind gusts reaching up to 88.5 kilometers per hour, conditions that could complicate travel and cause hazardous driving.

Officials in New York City cautioned about the risk of basement flooding, possible power outages, and significant disruptions to surface and air transportation. The Federal Aviation Administration indicated that strong winds might disrupt flights arriving at or departing from the city’s three major airports.

In response to the expected severe weather, large-scale public events have been canceled. The Open-air Global Citizen Festival, slated for Central Park in Manhattan, as well as Ed Sheeran’s scheduled concerts near Boston, both set to attract more than 50,000 attendees, were called off to ensure public safety.

Meanwhile, as the United Nations General Assembly concludes its sessions, prominent global leaders, including China’s vice-president and the foreign ministers of Canada, Germany, India, and Russia, are scheduled to address the assembly this weekend.