An extreme weather event known as the “Bomb Cyclone” is set to impact the US West Coast, bringing powerful winds, heavy rainfall, and substantial mountain snow. Experts warn that states, particularly California, could see over eight trillion gallons of rain as this major storm system sweeps through.
A bomb cyclone is a type of severe winter storm that rapidly intensifies when its pressure drops by at least 24 millibars within 24 hours. This upcoming storm could see a dramatic pressure drop of nearly 70 millibars within a day, reaching 942 millibars a decrease comparable to a Category 4 hurricane. Originating from a low-pressure system that draws warm, tropical moisture, bomb cyclones can lead to heavy rain, snow, and intense winds, with atmospheric rivers bringing additional moisture from the tropics.
Forecasters predict that from Tuesday to Thursday, the storm will impact coastal regions from Southern Oregon to Northern California, with rain expected to exceed a foot in some areas. The University of California, San Diego, uses a scale from 1 to 5 to rate atmospheric rivers, and areas along California’s coast are anticipated to face Category 4 conditions, classed as “extreme.” Southern Oregon and Northern California will likely experience river flooding, flash flooding, and extensive rainfall beginning Tuesday night.
Residents in low-lying areas are advised to stay vigilant and prepare for possible evacuation due to anticipated flood risks. The severity of the incoming bomb cyclone is expected to test the resilience of affected communities, with officials closely monitoring the storm’s development.
