Washington state is facing the aftermath of a devastating “bomb cyclone” that has resulted in the deaths of two individuals, left half a million residents without power at its peak, and caused extensive property damage. The powerful storm struck the Pacific Northwest, forming off the coast on Tuesday, and unleashed high winds, heavy rain, and significant snowfall in mountainous regions.
Time is critical as communities start to recover; more inclement weather is on the horizon. As of Thursday morning, roughly 320,000 customers are still without electricity, according to PowerOutage.Us. Tragically, the storm claimed the lives of two women: one at a homeless encampment in Lynnwood when a tree fell, and the other in Bellevue when a tree crashed into her home.
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service has reported that another storm system will arrive, bringing gusty winds on Friday and heavy snowfall extending towards the northern Rockies through the weekend. This upcoming storm is expected to develop off the Oregon and Washington coast, and while it may cause additional isolated power outages and rough surf, communities are hopeful for a swift recovery.
As Washington prepares for this new weather system, Northern California and southwestern Oregon are grappling with their own severe weather patterns due to a strong atmospheric river. This system is projected to bring excessive rainfall, prompting flooding concerns for 2 million residents, while mountain regions could see up to 5 feet of snow.
Overall, while the recovery from the bomb cyclone presents significant challenges, a resilient spirit can be seen in the communities coming together to support those affected, ensuring that no one faces these tough times alone. The weather will continue to be monitored closely, with a strong community response expected during the recovery phase.