A bomb cyclone is currently affecting Northern California and the Pacific Northwest, bringing heavy rain and strong winds that have already resulted in two fatalities. The National Weather Service has issued warnings regarding potential flooding, rock slides, debris flows, and further power outages due to the ongoing storm.
Expectations indicate that the storm will persist into the weekend, with forecasts predicting an additional 6 to 12 inches of rainfall along the Northern California coast, which is under a high-risk warning for excessive rainfall. By Thursday morning, over 300,000 homes and businesses were without power in Washington state, with another 23,000 affected in California. Wind gusts reached up to 85 mph in Oregon and rainfall exceeded one foot in parts of Northern California.
Meteorologist Dave Houk from AccuWeather noted that regions already saturated with rainfall are set to experience more heavy downpours. A developing storm system is expected to swing off the Oregon and Washington coast, but it is predicted to be less severe than the current one. Winds are anticipated to be strong but not at the same perilous levels as seen in previous days.
In terms of transportation disruptions, over 380 flights at San Francisco International Airport faced cancellations or delays, following a significant number previously on Tuesday. Furthermore, the Washington Cascades could receive an additional 15 inches of snow, burdening areas already affected.
Northern California’s infrastructure is feeling the brunt of the storm as several roads are closed, and vehicles on highways are being screened for snow chains. An avalanche warning has been issued for Mt. Shasta and surrounding areas, anticipating heavy snowfall followed by rain. Traffic issues were also reported on the Bay Bridge after a big rig jackknifed due to the rain.
Tragically, a tree fell on a homeless encampment in Lynnwood, Washington, claiming one life, while another woman lost her life when a tree fell onto her home in Bellevue. The Bellevue Fire Department urged residents to seek shelter in the lowest part of their homes away from windows, emphasizing the dangers posed by falling trees throughout the area.
The article describes the phenomenon known as a bomb cyclone— a severe winter storm characterized by a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure leading to intensified weather conditions. This specific term comes from the process of bombogenesis when a storm’s pressure decreases significantly within 24 hours.
They also explain atmospheric rivers, which contribute to extreme rainfall and snowfall in the Western United States. These “rivers in the sky” transport more water than many major rivers, playing a critical role in the region’s weather patterns.
In a brighter note, the communities impacted by the storm have demonstrated resilience, coming together to support one another during a time of crisis. Families like Nancy Dienes and Tracy Matthews mentioned plans to rebuild after their home was damaged, showcasing hope amidst destruction. With anticipated calmer weather in the coming days, there is optimism that the affected regions will gradually recover and rebuild, fostering community spirit and collaboration.
In summary, the bomb cyclone has brought considerable devastation but also revealed the strength and unity of communities ready to support one another and overcome adversity together.