A powerful bomb cyclone is currently impacting Northern California and the Pacific Northwest, bringing heavy rainfall and high winds. The storm has already been linked to two fatalities and is projected to cause flooding, rock slides, debris flows, and more power outages, according to the National Weather Service.
The storm’s effects are expected to persist into the weekend, with an additional 6-12 inches of rain forecasted, particularly along the Northern California coast where a high-risk warning for excessive rainfall has been issued. By Thursday morning, over 300,000 properties in Washington and around 23,000 in California were without electricity. Wind gusts reached as high as 85 mph in Oregon, with portions of Northern California seeing over a foot of rain, according to AccuWeather.
Meteorologist Dave Houk reflected on the situation, noting that areas already saturated with rain are likely to face more severe weather. He mentioned that while a follow-up storm system is anticipated, it is expected to be less intense than the current cyclone, with winds potentially reaching 50 mph along the coast and 25-30 mph in Seattle.
The storm has already caused significant disruptions, including the cancellation or delay of over 380 flights at San Francisco International Airport. Additionally, the Washington Cascades may receive up to another 15 inches of snow from this storm.
Local regions are coping with the aftermath; numerous roads are closed, and vehicles on major highways are being screened for snow chains due to adverse conditions. An avalanche warning has also been issued for Mt. Shasta and surrounding areas. A notable driving incident involved a big rig that jackknifed on the Bay Bridge, creating major traffic delays.
The fatalities include a woman killed when a tree fell on a homeless encampment and another woman who was struck when a tree fell on her home. Emergency services have been prioritizing life safety and advising residents to remain indoors.
In total, the bomb cyclone’s rapid intensification is due to a process called bombogenesis, which involves a significant drop in atmospheric pressure. This phenomenon occurs when a cold air mass collides with a warm one, often leading to severe winter storms.
Amidst the chaos, there’s determination from homeowners like Nancy Dienes, who plans to rebuild after a tree fell on her remodeled home in Seattle.
In summary, while the bomb cyclone wreaks havoc with its strong winds and heavy rain, the communities affected are showing resilience. As they deal with the aftermath, there is hope for recovery and rebuilding in the face of natural adversities.