Why were there severe thunderstorm warnings on the East Coast in December?

An atmospheric river caused strong winds and severe thunderstorms to impact the East Coast, leading to unusual December warnings.

What were the wind speeds during the East Coast storms?

Wind gusts during the severe thunderstorms reached between 60 to 70 miles per hour.

Were there tornado warnings issued in the affected areas?

While severe thunderstorms were warned for the East Coast, rare December tornado warnings were issued for St. Louis the previous day.

Home / Weather / East Coast Stunned by Rare December Severe Storms

East Coast Stunned by Rare December Severe Storms

20 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Severe thunderstorm warnings issued for over 13 million people.
Wind gusts reached 60 to 70 miles per hour.
Rare December tornado warnings were issued in St. Louis.

East Coast Stunned by Rare December Severe Storms

Severe thunderstorm warnings were issued for over 13 million people across the East Coast on Friday afternoon, including New York City. The National Weather Service warned of dangerous storms with wind gusts reaching 60 to 70 miles per hour, urging residents to seek immediate shelter indoors.

The powerful winds were attributed to an atmospheric river that had previously crossed the U.S. from the Pacific Northwest. This weather system also prompted rare December tornado warnings in St. Louis on the preceding Thursday, underscoring the widespread severe weather.

Multiple weather alerts were in effect, including wind advisories and gale warnings. The severe thunderstorm warnings, issued around 3:15 p.m. EST by NWS Mount Holly, emphasized the rapid development of these storms, which can necessitate swift action from the public.

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