Cliff Mass Warns of Powerful Cyclone Approaching Western Washington
A powerful storm resembling a Category 1 hurricane is forecasted to impact Western Washington, with wind gusts expected to reach 60-80 mph. Professor Cliff Mass advises residents, particularly in prone areas, to prepare for potential power outages, as significant weather impacts are anticipated along the coast and Cascade foothills.
Professor Cliff Mass of the University of Washington’s Atmospheric Sciences department has indicated that a powerful storm, akin to a Category 1 hurricane, is poised to impact Western Washington. This cyclone, emerging from the Pacific Ocean, possesses wind speeds and dimensions comparable to a hurricane, although meteorologists refer to it as a cyclone due to its differing energy source. Mass anticipates wind gusts reaching 60-80 mph along the coast and the Cascade foothills, especially affecting areas such as Enumclaw and North Bend. Residents are urged to prepare for potential power outages and take necessary precautions, particularly in regions prone to intense winds. As the cyclone develops, it is expected to create significant air pressure differences across the region, leading to severe winds. This storm is unusually intense compared to typical weather patterns, marking it as one of the strongest storms predicted in over a decade. While the lowlands, including Puget Sound, may experience milder gusts of 20-40 mph, those in coastal and foothill locations should anticipate extreme conditions and associated risks, such as downed trees and power disruptions. Mass has recommended readiness for power outages in these high-impact areas while stating, “If you live there, you should be ready for a power outage.”
The region of Western Washington is frequently subject to diverse weather patterns, with cyclones occasionally developing in the Pacific Ocean. These systems, while classified differently from hurricanes, can generate severe weather phenomena, including high wind speeds that pose risks to residents and infrastructure. The current storm is notable for its rapid intensification and potential power, warranting significant attention and preparation among those in affected areas.
In summary, a formidable storm comparable to a hurricane is anticipated to strike Western Washington, with implications for severe winds and potential power outages. Forecaster Cliff Mass has highlighted the necessity of preparation among residents, particularly those in vulnerable areas like the Cascade foothills. The combination of this cyclone’s intensity and the prevailing weather dynamics makes this a critical event for the region, with the likelihood of significant disruptions.
Original Source: mynorthwest.com
