- Severe Storm: A "bomb cyclone" intensified by an atmospheric river has brought extreme weather to the Pacific Northwest and western Canada.
- Casualties: At least two deaths reported in Washington State due to falling trees; multiple injuries in related incidents.
- Widespread Damage: High winds, heavy rain, and snow caused power outages, flooding, and structural damage across the region.
- Power Outages: Over 700,000 homes in Washington and 140,000 in British Columbia lost power at the storm's peak.
- Future Threats: Continued rain and snowmelt increase risks of flash floods, landslides, and debris flows.
- Severe Storm: A "bomb cyclone" intensified by an atmospheric river has brought extreme weather to the Pacific Northwest and western Canada.
- Casualties: At least two deaths reported in Washington State due to falling trees; multiple injuries in related incidents.
- Widespread Damage: High winds, heavy rain, and snow caused power outages, flooding, and structural damage across the region.
- Power Outages: Over 700,000 homes in Washington and 140,000 in British Columbia lost power at the storm's peak.
- Future Threats: Continued rain and snowmelt increase risks of flash floods, landslides, and debris flows.
Bomb Cyclone and Atmospheric River: A Deadly Weather Duo
The US Pacific Northwest and western Canada are facing devastating impacts from a rapidly intensifying bomb cyclone coupled with an atmospheric river. These combined weather systems have unleashed high winds, torrential rain, and heavy snowfall, causing widespread disruption and endangering lives.
What is a Bomb Cyclone?
A bomb cyclone refers to a storm system that rapidly intensifies as its central air pressure drops by at least 24 millibars within 24 hours. This rapid drop creates explosive weather conditions, including severe winds and heavy precipitation.
Impacts of the Storm
1. Loss of Life and Injuries
- In Washington State, two individuals died in separate incidents when trees fell on their homes and encampments during the storm.
- Rescue crews were deployed to free individuals trapped in vehicles and buildings due to fallen trees.
2. Power Outages and Damage
- High winds knocked down power lines, cutting electricity for hundreds of thousands of residents.
- Emergency services reported extensive structural damage, including trees crashing into homes, vehicles, and roadways.
3. Flooding and Landslides
- Torrential rain has led to significant flooding risks in northern California and Oregon.
- The combination of rain and snowmelt from the Cascades and Northern Rockies is likely to exacerbate these conditions, increasing the threat of landslides.
Regional Impacts
Pacific Northwest (US):
- Washington and Oregon faced severe weather with gusts over 100 mph in some areas.
- Schools closed, and emergency shelters were activated in affected regions.
Northern California:
- Up to 8 inches (20 cm) of rain expected, increasing the risk of flash floods and mudslides.
Western Canada:
- Winds exceeding 100 mph were reported on Vancouver Island, leaving 140,000 customers without power.
Pacific Northwest (US):
- Washington and Oregon faced severe weather with gusts over 100 mph in some areas.
- Schools closed, and emergency shelters were activated in affected regions.
Northern California:
- Up to 8 inches (20 cm) of rain expected, increasing the risk of flash floods and mudslides.
Western Canada:
- Winds exceeding 100 mph were reported on Vancouver Island, leaving 140,000 customers without power.
What is an Atmospheric River?
An atmospheric river is a narrow corridor of concentrated moisture traveling through the atmosphere. When it interacts with a bomb cyclone, it intensifies rainfall, resulting in major weather events like those currently impacting the Pacific coast.
Looking Ahead: Continued Risks
- Heavy Rain: More rain is expected through the week as atmospheric rivers bring sustained moisture from the Pacific.
- Snowmelt and Flooding: Warmer air will melt accumulated snow, raising the risk of flooding and debris flows.
- Precautionary Measures: Authorities are advising residents to stay indoors, avoid non-essential travel, and monitor updates on flooding and landslides.
Conclusion
The deadly combination of a bomb cyclone and atmospheric river has created a significant weather crisis in the Pacific Northwest and western Canada. While immediate weather conditions may ease, long-term risks of flooding and landslides remain high. Residents are urged to prioritize safety and heed local warnings as the region faces ongoing challenges from this extreme weather event.