Severe Weather Alerts for West Coast: Bomb Cyclone and Atmospheric River Expected
The West Coast will see impactful weather as a bomb cyclone arrives, bringing significant rain and strong winds from California to Washington. Rainfall of 2-4 inches daily is anticipated, with additional snow in mountainous regions. The storm poses a risk of flooding and hazardous travel conditions.
The West Coast is poised to experience severe weather as a bomb cyclone approaches, bringing significant rainfall and intense winds from California to Washington. According to the FOX Forecast Center, the storm is expected to deliver steady rain from Tuesday night through the weekend, potentially causing flooding in various regions. Rainfall accumulation may reach 2-4 inches daily, with even higher totals in mountainous areas. Additionally, the cyclone will result in strong winds, with gusts of up to 70 mph. Rain will likely transition to snow in the high elevations, which could accumulate several feet in places like the Cascades and Sierra Nevada due to the influx of warmer Pacific air.
A bomb cyclone is characterized by a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure, defined as a decrease of at least 24 millibars in 24 hours. Such storms generally occur when a storm system encounters extreme conditions, leading to severe weather phenomena. This upcoming phenomenon is tied to an atmospheric river—a concentrated corridor of moisture from the Pacific—that is known to produce heavy precipitation and snow, impacting travel and safety in affected areas. Historical data indicates that atmospheric rivers can result in significant hydrological impacts, prompting crucial preparedness measures for residents and authorities alike.
In summary, the impending bomb cyclone is expected to unleash considerable rainfall and strong winds across the West Coast, affecting regions from California to Washington. Locales may experience flooding and hazardous travel conditions due to the forecasted rain and wind gusts. Moreover, the cyclone’s characteristic impact will likely lead to substantial snow accumulation in higher elevations, raising concerns for both travel and safety in mountainous areas. Thus, residents should remain vigilant and prepared for these weather developments.
Original Source: www.foxweather.com
