October 29, 2012 - Sandy Strikes the NY/NJ Shore

In addition to shutting down the PATH system connecting New York and New Jersey, Sandy caused billions of dollars in total damages.

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In late October, Sandy approached the U.S. East Coast as a Category 2 hurricane. It boasted hurricane-force winds that extended in outer bands spanning 175 miles (282 km) out from Sandy's eye, making it much larger than most storms of its type.

West Virginia Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin declared a state of emergency due to snow and rain expected from Sandy, with the latter on impact but the former from the wrap-around bands. As well, 6,700 National Guard were called to active duty in order to support governors of states in the path of Sandy.

On Oct. 29, Sandy turned west-northwest and then moved ashore near Brigantine, N.J., just northeast of Atlantic City, as a post-tropical cyclone with hurricane-force winds.

Taxis/NY/NJ/NOAA

The storm surge from Sandy dealt a knockout blow to the New Jersey shoreline and lower west side of Manhattan. The level at Battery Park in New York topped 13.88 feet (4 metres) that night. Photo: NOAA.

The storm surge dealt a knockout blow to the New Jersey shoreline and lower west side of Manhattan. The level at Battery Park in New York topped 13.88 feet (4 metres) that night. In New York Harbor, a buoy measured a 32.5-foot (10-metre) wave making that a record level, as well.

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In addition to shutting down the PATH system connecting New York and New Jersey and resulted in billions of dollars in total damages.

On today's podcast, Chris Mei talks about the records Sandy set, how powerful it was and the damages it resulted.

"This Day In Weather History” is a daily podcast by The Weather Network that features unique and informative stories from host Chris Mei.