Tragic Loss and Power Outages in Washington State
A woman in her 50s tragically lost her life in Lynnwood, Washington, when a tree fell on an encampment. As of 7 p.m. local time, nearly 100,000 homes and businesses in Washington were without power, along with over 14,000 in Oregon. The Bellevue Fire Department issued an urgent warning to residents, urging them to seek shelter on lower floors, avoid windows, and remain indoors if possible.
Record-Breaking Storm Brings Heavy Precipitation and Snow
The powerful atmospheric river event is expected to bring up to 15 inches of rain and significant snowfall in mountainous areas. The storm could potentially dump 2 feet of snow in Mount Shasta City, California, which could disrupt traffic along Interstate 5. Whiteout blizzard conditions might also affect parts of the Cascade Mountains.
Hurricane-Force Winds and Intense Atmospheric River
Meteorologists have predicted hurricane-force winds along the coast and gusts of up to 90 mph on Mount Rainier. The National Weather Service has attributed these fierce winds to a bomb cyclone, a rapidly intensifying storm system that can lead to a sharp drop in air pressure. The storm is also ushering in an atmospheric river, a long plume of moisture from the tropical Pacific.
Atmospheric River Contribution and Climate Change Influence
Atmospheric rivers play a crucial role in West Coast precipitation, but they can also cause significant flooding. Research indicates that 84% of flood damage in Western states is associated with these atmospheric rivers. Scientists believe that climate change is exacerbating atmospheric rivers by increasing the atmosphere’s capacity to hold water vapor and leading to more intense precipitation.
Widespread Flooding and Potential Impacts
Flood watches have been issued for Northern California due to the expected heavy rainfall. The Russian River is expected to receive about 10 inches of rain, leading to minor flooding. The National Water Prediction Service has also issued warnings for several other rivers, including the Eel River, which could experience minor to moderate flooding. However, larger rivers are less likely to flood due to the relatively dry landscape.
Record-Breaking Rainfall and Water Supply Benefits
Climate scientist Daniel Swain has estimated a 10% to 20% chance of record-breaking rainfall in areas north of Santa Rosa, California, and southern Oregon. While atmospheric rivers can cause chaos, they also play a vital role in replenishing water supplies in California and other Western states. The upcoming storm will fill reservoirs and potentially increase groundwater levels that were depleted during the summer.
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