Coastal storms, including nor'easters, tropical storms and hurricanes, can and do affect New York City. New York is among the country’s most susceptible cities to hurricane hazards. Although cities like New Orleans and Houston experience hurricanes more often, New York City’s geography makes its population especially vulnerable to wind and flooding. 

Each of the five boroughs has a coastline, and much of the city is very densely populated. In addition, a geographic phenomenon called the “New York Bight” will magnify a hurricane’s effects on the land. The New York Bight occurs because the New York and New Jersey coastlines meet at a right angle. From this junction, the New York Bight will guide a storm surge directly into New York City, amplifying flooding and related damage. 

With sustained winds of 74 mph or greater, hurricanes can flatten buildings, topple trees and turn loose objects into deadly projectiles. A major hurricane could push more than 30 feet of storm surge into some parts of New York City.

It's important New Yorkers take the time to prepare. All residents should have a plan in the event they need to evacuate or ride out the storm at home.

To find out more about these storms and New York City's coastal storm response procedures, download the Ready New York: Hurricanes and New York City brochure.

Find out more about coastal storms, hurricane forecasting, storm tracking, and measuring hurricane strength.

Learn more about storm surge and coastal flooding.

Read more about hurricanes and New York City.