nor easter

A nor'easter is a large-scale, powerful extratropical cyclone that occurs along the East Coast of North America. It is named for the strong winds that blow from the northeast over the coastal areas.

Key Characteristics

• Wind Direction: The defining feature of a nor'easter is that its winds blow from the northeast.
• Formation: These storms typically form within 100 miles of the coast, between Georgia and New Jersey, and track northeastward. They thrive on the temperature contrast between cold Arctic air from Canada and the warm, moist air over the Atlantic Ocean (specifically the Gulf Stream).
• Precipitation: While often associated with snow and blizzard conditions, nor'easters do not require cold enough temperatures for snow. They can also produce heavy rain, torrential downpours, or a mix of precipitation.
• Impacts: Nor'easters can cause significant disruption, including hurricane-force winds, rough seas, severe coastal flooding, and coastal erosion.

Nor'easters vs. Hurricanes

Although both are cyclones (storms with winds spiraling around a low-pressure center), there are important differences:

• Origin: Hurricanes form in the warm, tropical waters near the equator, while nor'easters develop in the latitudes further north along the U.S. East Coast.
• Energy Source: Hurricanes are "warm-core" systems that draw energy from warm ocean waters. Nor'easters are "cold-core" systems that derive energy from the temperature differences between cold air and warm water.

Timing

While nor'easters can occur at any time of year, they are most frequent and intense between September and April.