Nor’easter Set to Bring Days of Heavy Rain, High Winds

As of October 20, 2026, a powerful nor'easter is affecting the East Coast from New Jersey to Virginia Beach and may impact areas as far south as Cape Hatteras in North Carolina. The storm could develop into Tropical Storm Josephine over the next week with a 40% chance of formation in two days and another 40% chance in seven days, according to forecasts. Coastal flooding and beach erosion are expected along the Outer Banks, while Nantucket may see winds up to 44 mph, and Virginia Beach could experience gusts reaching 32 mph. Mandatory evacuations have been ordered for Hatteras Island due to worsening storm conditions and potential significant ocean overwash. The National Hurricane Center is monitoring this system closely as it moves offshore, although the heaviest rain is expected only in easternmost regions of affected states.