Recently, NOAA’s GOES West satellite (GOES-18) captured striking imagery of a potent mid-latitude cyclone combined with a significant atmospheric river affecting northern California, the Pacific Northwest, and British Columbia from November 19 to 20, 2024. This intense weather system has unleashed fierce winds, heavy rainfall, and substantial snowfall in mountainous regions, raising the risk of flash floods, landslides, and debris flows.
The satellite imagery reveals a powerful low-pressure system approximately 300 miles off Washington’s coast, drawing in a vigorous atmospheric river across the Pacific Ocean. As a result, this event has resulted in hurricane-force winds, leading to two fatalities and leaving hundreds of thousands without power. The storm has also caused significant damage to trees and generated blizzard conditions in the Cascades. This severe weather event, referred to as a “bomb cyclone,” is characterized by a rapid drop in central pressure, signaling its swift intensification.
GOES West, also known as GOES-18, has been crucial in monitoring such systems since its launch in March 2018, with full operations beginning in February 2019. It provides continuous geostationary imaging for extensive areas including the Western Hemisphere, the U.S., the Pacific Ocean, Alaska, and Hawaii.
While the impact of this storm has been devastating, meteorologists continue to work diligently to predict and monitor such phenomena, aiding in public safety and preparedness. The ability to visualize these dynamic weather systems can lead to better understanding and mitigation of future weather events. In the face of adversity, communities can come together to support one another and rebuild stronger from these challenges.
This extreme meteorological event serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the ongoing need for advancements in weather forecasting and climate resilience.