Flash floods could sweep US region as noreaster threatens millions along East Coast

The system that will eventually become the first nor’easter of the season is bringing rain to the Ohio Valley and parts of the Mid-Atlantic while strong high pressure builds to the north.A flash flood threat due to heavy rain covers the region through Wednesday.The coastal flood risk will increase throughout the workweek from North Carolina’s Outer Banks to New England as strong northeasterly winds develop across the offshore and coastal waters, producing powerful wind gusts.Seas will rise rapidly, creating heavy surf and dangerous, battering waves along exposed beaches.A Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect through Wednesday night across parts of the Mid-Atlantic, meaning some coastal roads could be impassable.According to the FOX Forecast Center, persistent onshore winds will remain locked in through multiple high-tide cycles, allowing waves to relentlessly pound the base of coastal dunes.Significant beach erosion and dune scarping will develop from the Outer Banks through the Mid-Atlantic and Long Island as the surface low-pressure system forms.The FOX Forecast Center said moderate coastal flooding is expected during high tides, particularly in vulnerable back bays and low-lying coastal roadways.The storm will emerge off the coast and begin to strengthen sometime Thursday or Friday.The Outer Banks are forecast to see major coastal flooding, extreme surf and heavy, continuous rain.Some areas could experience wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph, with offshore waves reaching 15 to 18 feet.The region will also see widespread rainfall, although widespread flash flooding is not currently forecast.However, pounding waves across multiple high-tide cycles could lead to coastal flooding and severe beach erosion.Ocean overwash onto coastal roadways, including Highway 12, is expected, potentially creating scenes similar to major coastal events seen last year.By Thursday and Friday, the surface low-pressure system will strengthen off the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic coasts, causing ...