Storm Sweeps Across US Northwest, Causing Widespread Power Outages and Damage
A major storm swept across the US Northwest, battering the region with strong winds and rain, causing widespread power outages, closing schools, and downing trees that killed at least two people.
The Storm’s Impact
The Weather Prediction Center issued excessive rainfall risks through Friday and hurricane-force wind warnings were in effect as the strongest atmospheric river, a large plume of moisture, overwhelmed the region. The storm system that hit starting Tuesday is considered a "bomb cyclone," which occurs when a cyclone intensifies rapidly.
California and Oregon
In California, the weather service extended a flood watch into Saturday for areas north of San Francisco. Up to 16 inches of rain was forecast in northern California and southwestern Oregon through Friday. Dangerous flash flooding, rock slides, and debris flows were possible, officials warned.
A winter storm watch was in place for the northern Sierra Nevada above 3,500 feet, where 15 inches of snow was possible over two days. Wind gusts could top 75 mph in mountain areas, forecasters said.
Washington State
In Washington state, the storm caused widespread power outages, with over 460,000 customers without electricity by Wednesday afternoon. More than a dozen schools were closed in Seattle alone. Fallen trees struck homes and littered roads across western Washington, killing at least two people.
Other States
The first significant snow of the season in the Dakotas and Minnesota led to accidents and slippery roadways. The weather service said up to 16 inches of snow could fall in the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota, and Minot could get up to 8 inches of snow. Winds were expected to be problematic in parts of Montana and Nebraska, with gusts up to 60 mph.
Conclusion
The storm that swept across the US Northwest caused significant damage and disruption, with widespread power outages, fallen trees, and flooding reported across the region. The impact of the storm was felt across multiple states, including Washington, Oregon, California, and others.
FAQs
Q: What caused the storm?
A: The storm was caused by a strong atmospheric river, a large plume of moisture that overwhelmed the region.
Q: Where did the storm cause the most damage?
A: The storm caused significant damage across western Washington state, including Seattle and surrounding areas.
Q: How many people were affected by the storm?
A: Over 460,000 customers were without electricity in Washington state, and multiple schools were closed.
Q: Did anyone die as a result of the storm?
A: Yes, at least two people were killed when trees fell on their homes in Washington state.
Q: When will the storm end?
A: The storm is expected to continue through Friday, with flooding and strong winds possible in some areas.
