Massive Storm Threatens 200 Million in US, Tornadoes and Floods Loom

Photo by@REUTERS/dailymail.co

Extreme weather is set to impact 200 million Americans today, with tornadoes, power outages, and severe storms expected across the East Coast. This weather event is also predicted to bring coastal flooding in the Northeast, reminiscent of the blizzard of 1996.

• Winter Storm Finn is causing chaos along the East Coast, leading New Jersey to declare a state of emergency following tornadoes in the South.
• The National Weather Service predicts heavy rain, strong winds, and severe thunderstorms from Florida to Maine, raising concerns about widespread flooding.
• New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has issued a state of emergency, effective from Tuesday evening, in preparation for the storm, which follows on the heels of recent adverse weather conditions.

The National Weather Service forecasts severe weather conditions due to Winter Storm Finn, affecting the Eastern United States from Tuesday into early Wednesday. Widespread heavy rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms are expected, creating dangerous situations. This system is predicted to bring heavy rainfall from the Florida Panhandle to southern Maine, affecting over 200 million Americans. There are particular concerns for the area from northern Virginia to southern New England, where one to three inches of rain on already saturated or snow-covered ground could cause significant flooding.

In response, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy declared a state of emergency to commence at 5:00 p.m. Tuesday. He emphasized the urgency for New Jersey residents, especially those in coastal and riverine areas, to adhere to safety protocols and avoid unnecessary travel. Meteorologists also warn of a low-level jet stream preceding the cold front, likely resulting in 30-50 mph surface winds, with gusts exceeding 50 mph in coastal and elevated areas.

Northern Florida to the Carolinas' coastal plain may experience severe thunderstorms. As of Tuesday morning, reports of damaging winds have stretched from eastern Texas to western Florida, with a confirmed tornado in Walton County, Florida.

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