A powerful winter storm rapidly intensified overnight, unleashing heavy snow, strong winds and even intense lightning across parts of the eastern United States.
Dramatic satellite images released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) captured lightning flashing over the Atlantic waters as the system strengthened into a major nor’easter.
The enhanced colour imagery from NOAA’s GOES-East weather satellite, also known as GOES-19, showed bright bursts of lightning embedded within the swirling storm clouds. The rare sight of lightning during a snowstorm, often referred to as “thundersnow,” highlights the storm’s intensity as it rapidly gained strength overnight.
Blizzard Warnings and Winter Storm Warnings have been issued from coastal Maryland to Maine, covering millions of residents along the densely populated Northeast corridor. Forecasters say the fast-developing system is producing heavy snowfall rates, strong coastal winds and dangerous travel conditions.
A nor’easter typically forms along the East Coast when cold Arctic air clashes with warmer, moisture-rich air over the Atlantic Ocean.
In this case, meteorologists say the storm underwent rapid intensification, meaning its central pressure dropped quickly in a short period of time, a sign of strengthening.
The result has been a sprawling winter system capable of burying cities under thick snow while whipping up powerful wind gusts near the coastline. Coastal flooding and beach erosion are also concerns as strong onshore winds push water toward shore.
The lightning detected over the water suggests powerful upward motion within the storm clouds, a feature more commonly associated with severe thunderstorms than winter systems. Weather experts note that such electrical activity during snowstorms is uncommon but not unheard of during especially strong nor’easters.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel as roads become snow-covered and visibility drops due to blowing snow. Airlines have reported cancellations and delays across several major airports in the region.
As the storm continues to track northeastward, heavy snow and gusty winds are expected to persist before gradually easing. Officials advise residents to monitor local forecasts and heed safety warnings as this intense winter system moves through.
