Major Storm Takes Aim At Densely Populated Northeast

(AP) _ A major storm is threatening 60 million Americans in the eastern third of the nation. Persistent high winds, drenching rains, extreme tides and heavy flooding are expected.

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Weather experts say it combines Hurricane Sandy, an ordinary cold front and Arctic air. The hurricane is being steered by a giant ridge of air centered over Greenland, blocking its normal path north. The full moon and an expected record low pressure will likely amplify its wrath.

The result is a week-long weather monster that the federal government’s top forecaster says is far worse than the sum of its parts.

More coverage: East Coast Prepares For Approaching Megastorm