The Pacific Northwest and northern California are bracing for what meteorologists are calling a “bomb cyclone” – an intense low pressure system that is unleashing hurricane-force winds, torrential downpours, and the threat of widespread flooding across the region. This powerful storm, considered the strongest to hit the area in decades, is part of an atmospheric river event that is funneling huge amounts of moisture from the Pacific Ocean onto the West Coast.
Storm Slams Pacific Northwest with Damaging Winds
As the storm system intensified on Tuesday evening, it began pummeling coastal areas of Oregon and Washington with wind gusts exceeding 75 mph (121 kph). The National Weather Service warned that these hurricane-force winds could lead to extensive power outages and damage from downed trees and power lines.
Be aware of the risk of flash flooding at lower elevations and winter storms at higher elevations. This is going to be an impactful event.
Richard Bann, Meteorologist, National Weather Service
Conditions were ripe for what’s known as a “mountain wave” near Seattle, a phenomenon that can generate destructive low-elevation wind gusts. As of Tuesday night, around 94,000 customers had lost power in western Washington, with winds still ramping up and snow falling in mountain passes. Oregon also reported over 12,000 power outages.
Northern California Braces for Flooding Rains
While the Pacific Northwest faces damaging winds, northern California is preparing for an onslaught of heavy rainfall from the potent atmospheric river. Forecasters have issued flood and high wind watches, with some areas expected to receive up to 8 inches (20 cm) of rain.
- The San Francisco Bay Area, North Coast, and Sacramento Valley could see extensive flooding
- The northern Sierra Nevada mountains are under a winter storm watch, with up to 15 inches (38 cm) of snow possible above 3,500 feet (1,066 m)
- Flash floods, hazardous travel conditions, power outages, and tree damage are likely as the storm peaks in intensity on Wednesday
Residents across northern California spent Monday preparing for the deluge, clearing storm drains and stocking up on emergency supplies. Officials urged people to have food, charge electronic devices, and be ready for potential power losses and road closures.
Atmospheric River Brings Drenching Rains
At the heart of this powerful storm is a phenomenon known as an atmospheric river – a long, narrow stream of moisture that transports huge amounts of water vapor from the tropics to mid-latitude regions. Atmospheric rivers are responsible for most of the heavy rain and flooding events along the U.S. West Coast.
This will be pretty strong in terms of the last 10 or 20 years. We’ve only seen a couple storms that have really been this strong.
Larry O’Neill, Director, Oregon Climate Service
According to meteorologists, the current atmospheric river impacting the West Coast is the strongest seen so far this season. When these moisture-laden systems make landfall, they can release staggering amounts of precipitation, often leading to flooding, mudslides, and other hazards.
Preparing for the Storm’s Impacts
As the bomb cyclone continues to intensify and move inland, residents and authorities across the affected regions are taking steps to mitigate potential damages and ensure public safety:
- Crews are working to clear storm drains, culverts, and catch basins to prevent urban flooding
- Sandbags are being distributed in flood-prone areas to protect properties
- Utility companies are staging crews and equipment to respond quickly to power outages
- Travelers are being warned of hazardous conditions, with some roads and bridges likely to close
While the storm’s full impact remains to be seen, experts agree that this powerful weather system poses a significant threat to the region. As the bomb cyclone continues its march across the West Coast, residents are urged to stay informed, heed warnings from local authorities, and take all necessary precautions to stay safe.
With climate change expected to intensify extreme weather events like atmospheric rivers and bomb cyclones, many are viewing this storm as a sign of things to come. As the region braces for impact, it serves as a stark reminder of the increasing challenges posed by a warming planet and the urgent need for resilience in the face of a changing climate.
