SEATTLE (AP) — A powerful storm hit the northwest U.S. on Tuesday evening, causing widespread power outages and tree damage.
The Weather Prediction Center issued warnings for excessive rainfall from Tuesday to Friday as an atmospheric river, a large plume of moisture, moved towards California and the Pacific Northwest. This storm system, known as a bomb cyclone, intensifies rapidly.
Areas from south of Portland, Oregon, to north of San Francisco are expected to experience severe rainfall, leading to flash floods at lower elevations and winter storms at higher elevations.
Hurricane-force winds above 75 mph could hit the Oregon coast, while near Seattle, strong winds could cause power outages and downed trees.
Over 100,000 customers lost power in Washington, and thousands were affected in Oregon and California. Wind speeds of 68 mph were recorded near Mount Rainier.
California is expecting heavy rain and high winds, with the possibility of flash floods and power outages. In the Sierra Nevada, snowfall and strong winds are forecasted.
Officials are warning of hazardous travel conditions, power outages, and tree damage due to the storm’s impact. Precautionary measures are being taken in various regions.
Washington and Oregon are bracing for significant rainfall and high winds, with blizzard warnings issued for mountain areas.
Fallen trees and rough winds have already caused disruptions in Washington, prompting officials to advise against unnecessary travel.
The storm is expected to continue causing chaos across the region, with potential for more damage and dangerous conditions.
