A powerful spring storm system is advancing toward the East Coast, placing over 65 million residents from Florida to New York under the threat of severe weather on Wednesday, March 5, 2025.
The primary concerns include damaging wind gusts, strong tornadoes, and heavy rainfall.
Storm System Overview
Originating in the South, this storm system has already unleashed damaging winds and tornadoes across regions such as Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.
As it progresses eastward, the system is expected to maintain its intensity, impacting major urban centers along the Eastern Seaboard.
Areas Under Enhanced Risk
The National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center has issued a Level 3 out of 5 risk for severe thunderstorms in specific zones, notably parts of eastern South Carolina, eastern North Carolina, and southeastern Virginia. Cities within this heightened risk area include:
- Virginia: Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake
- North Carolina: Raleigh, Durham
- South Carolina: Charleston, Myrtle Beach
These regions should prepare for the possibility of extreme damaging wind gusts exceeding 75 mph and the potential for strong tornadoes.
Potential Impacts by Region
- Florida and Eastern Georgia: Strong to severe storms are anticipated, with threats including damaging winds and isolated tornadoes.
- Mid-Atlantic States: Areas from western New York into the mid-Atlantic could experience severe weather conditions, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours.
Forecasted Conditions for Major Cities
| City | Forecasted Conditions |
|---|---|
| Miami, FL | Showers with windy conditions; high near 74°F (23°C), low around 71°F (22°C) |
| Atlanta, GA | Breezy with intervals of clouds and sunshine; severe thunderstorms possible at night; high near 69°F (20°C), low around 55°F (13°C) |
| Charleston, SC | Breezy with increasing clouds; showers late; risk of severe thunderstorms; high near 63°F (17°C), low around 62°F (16°C) |
| Raleigh, NC | Breezy with increasing cloudiness; risk of severe thunderstorms; high near 66°F (19°C), low around 57°F (14°C) |
| Virginia Beach, VA | Breezy with times of clouds and sun; risk of severe thunderstorms; high near 62°F (16°C), low around 52°F (11°C) |
| Baltimore, MD | Partly sunny and warmer; high near 65°F (18°C), low around 47°F (8°C) |
| Philadelphia, PA | Increasing sun; high near 62°F (17°C), low around 44°F (7°C) |
| New York, NY | Cloudy morning with afternoon sun intervals; high near 52°F (11°C), low around 43°F (6°C) |
Safety Precautions and Recommendations
Residents in the affected areas are advised to:
- Stay Informed: Regularly monitor local weather updates and heed warnings from authorities.
- Secure Property: Ensure outdoor items are secured to prevent them from becoming projectiles during high winds.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Charge electronic devices and have backup power sources ready.
- Identify Safe Shelters: Know the nearest storm shelters or safe rooms, especially if residing in mobile homes or areas prone to flooding.
The impending storm system poses a significant threat to a vast portion of the Eastern United States.
With the potential for severe weather conditions, including damaging winds and tornadoes, it is imperative for residents to remain vigilant, prepared, and responsive to official advisories.