The West Coast is set to experience one of the most intense weather events this season as meteorologists warn of an impending bomb cyclone combined with an atmospheric river. Starting from November 19, this weather system promises to deliver strong hurricane-force winds, severe rainfall, and heavy snowfall across Oregon, Northern California, and Washington State.
A bomb cyclone, also known as bombogenesis, happens when the central pressure of a storm decreases by at least 24 millibars within 24 hours, leading to rapidly intensifying storms. The expected weather system will drop between 50 to 60 millibars, plunging below the 950-millibar mark, making this storm exceptionally powerful. The cyclone will merge with moisture-laden air from the tropics, creating what meteorologists describe as category 5 atmospheric river conditions, which can cause significant rainfall and flooding.
Oregon residents are bracing for the storm's impacts, which are especially severe this time around. Wind gusts could reach up to 70 mph along the coast and Willamette Valley, with sustained winds of 30 to 40 mph. Inland cities, including Eugene and Salem, should prepare for gusts of 40 to 50 mph, with certain mountain areas potentially facing localized gusts as high as 60 mph due to unique geographic effects.
Heavy rain is expected, particularly affecting southwestern regions, including Medford and the Rogue Valley, with anticipated rainfall totals exceeding 7 inches. Flooding risks are heightened, especially since previous storms have already saturated the ground. The Portland metro area and surrounding regions may experience rainfall ranging from 2 to 4 inches, creating additional challenges for residents.
Snowfall predictions are also impressive, particularly for the Cascades, where elevations above 3,500 feet might see more than 2 feet of snow, with higher areas nearing 3 feet. Ski resorts like Mt. Hood Meadows and Timberline Lodge report one of the best starts to the ski season they've seen for decades.
Across Northern California, residents will also feel the cyclone's impacts. Areas stretching from Eureka to the San Francisco Bay could be hit with 2 to 4 inches of rain per day, with strong winds contributing to treacherous conditions. Up to 3 feet of snow is possible in the Sierra Nevada mountains, significantly affecting transportation and travel.
Washington will not escape the storm either. Coastal areas and the Strait of Juan de Fuca may see gusts up to 65 mph, with Seattle and Bellingham expecting sustained winds around 35 mph and rain totals around 2 to 3 inches.
While Oregon may not see the same level of flooding predicted for Northern California, localized river flooding could occur, especially in areas prone to such events. The risk of mudslides and landslides increases with the combination of heavy rain and the area's steep terrain, particularly affecting southern Oregon and coastal regions.
Residents are urged to prepare for possible power outages due to high winds bringing down trees and power lines. Those living along coastal and rural areas should make sure to have backup supplies ready, including food, water, medication, and charging devices, as outages could last several days.
Traveling during this storm is highly discouraged, especially through the Cascades and Coast Range, where conditions will be dangerous due to heavy snow and icy roads. Airline delays are already expected across the Pacific Northwest as the storm approaches.
It's highly recommended for residents to secure outdoor items, stock up on emergency supplies, plan for potential travel delays, and stay updated with information from the National Weather Service and local outlets.
Following this storm, meteorologists predict additional systems could sweep through the region, keeping the Pacific Northwest under dynamic weather conditions through the Thanksgiving holiday. Fortunately, for ski enthusiasts, this storm may not bring destructive flooding to the Cascade snowpack, preserving conditions for what could be one of the best ski seasons in recent memory.
Despite the significant threats associated with this cyclone, the community's preparedness and quick responses can help mitigate some risks. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and check regularly for updates as conditions evolve. With the region poised for heavy hitting meteorological phenomena, the focus will remain on safety and weathering the storm effectively.
