Thousands of homes lost power, as downed power lines and trees blocked highways in Washington state on Tuesday due to a powerful atmospheric river event, officials announced.
Forecasters stated that a storm could bring up to 15 inches of rain and heavy snowfall in the mountains. By 7 p.m. local time, about 100,000 homes and businesses in Washington and over 14,000 homes in Oregon were without power, as reported by news agencies on the Rack Website poweroutage.us.
The Bellevue, Washington, fire department warned, “Trees are falling across the city, hitting homes.” They advised residents to stay away from windows and not to go outside if possible. X was contacted on Tuesday around 8pm.
Weather forecasters warned of a whiteout snowstorm in the Cascade Range and possible 2 feet of snow in Mount Shasta, Northern California, along Interstate 5. High wind gusts of up to 90 mph were recorded on Mount Rainier and 52 mph in Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
Known as bomb cyclones, these intense winds are caused by rapidly intensifying storm systems with decreasing atmospheric pressure. Scientists attribute this phenomenon to climate change generating more atmospheric rivers, which are significant contributors to precipitation on the West Coast.
An atmospheric river storm could bring significant rainfall over a three-day period in Northern California, with a flood watch issued in several areas. These storms help replenish water supplies after dry summers, but can also lead to severe flooding and damage.
Satellite images show a weather system moving towards the Pacific Northwest, prompting concerns of damaging winds, rain, and snow. Climate scientists are closely monitoring the storm and its potential impacts on various regions.
NOAA
As the storm progresses, residents in affected areas are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and follow safety guidelines to minimize risks and potential damage.
Source: www.nbcnews.com
