Heavy Rain in New York, September 30, 2001

On Sunday, September 30th, a developing storm system located off the Mid Atlantic coast, combined with a strengthening high pressure system over the eastern Great Lakes, which led to the development of a tight pressure gradient and prolonged period of strong northeast winds across eastern Long Island. In addition, astronomical tides were running up to two feet above normal in response to the upcoming full moon.The Ambrose Light Tower Buoy at the mouth of New York Harbor and Buoy 44025 around 20 miles south of Fire Island Inlet reported sustained northeast winds from 30 to 35 knots with peak gusts to around 40 knots. Buoy 44025 reported wave heights of around 14 feet. The combination of gale force winds, high seas, and high astronomical tides led to moderate beach erosion and minor coastal flooding across parts of Long Island, particularly across the twin forks of eastern Long Island.In Sag Harbor, 15 boats broke free from their moorings due to strong and persistent northeast winds during Sunday afternoon. Many of these boats were tossed onto nearby beaches, jetties and docks. Several of these boats were destroyed after hitting nearby rocks.In Montauk, moderate beach erosion occurred near the Royal Atlantic Motel Sunday afternoon and night. One wing of the motel had to be evacuated Sunday night as water levels rose. Approximately 35 feet of dune was lost during the storm near the motel.