A powerful bomb cyclone linked to a significant atmospheric river is predicted to soak the West Coast, stretching from Washington to California, this week. It could bring potentially life-threatening flooding and blizzard conditions.

A powerful storm system will continue to bring heavy mountain snow, rain, and high winds to the Pacific Northwest and northern California through midweek.

Heavy rain and flash flooding potential exists across the central Gulf Coast over the next few days, including the Florida… pic.twitter.com/5ZbCE7zVTl

— National Weather Service (@NWS) November 19, 2024

The term “bomb cyclone” originates from the meteorological phrase “bombogenesis” or “explosive cyclogenesis.”

This phenomenon occurs when the central pressure of a storm system drops by at least 24 millibars within 24 hours.

This particular storm may reach historic levels of intensity. As noted by NWS Seattle, the lowest pressure ever recorded off Washington’s coast was 942 mb (27.81 inches) on Oct. 24, 2021.

Model predictions suggest that the storm’s pressure could approach this level by Tuesday evening, according to the FOX Weather Center.

‘High risk’ flood threat for Northern California

A significant surge of moisture is expected to arrive Tuesday night and remain in the area through late in the week, possibly extending into the weekend, according to the FOX Forecast Center.

The system is anticipated to bring consistent, moderate rainfall over several days, which could result in flooded roads, streams, and even major rivers.

Northern California is expected to be the focal point of this atmospheric river.

Between Wednesday and Friday, some locations may experience 2-4 inches of rain per day, with even greater amounts likely in the mountainous regions.

In response, the Weather Prediction Center has issued a rare “high risk” flash flood warning for Northern California on Thursday.

80-mph winds possible

Strong winds are expected to pick up Tuesday evening as the storm approaches.

Next Part →

12