Janice R. Andrews
Pacific Northwest Struck by Intense Storm
A powerful bomb cyclone hit the Pacific Northwest, bringing hurricane-force winds to Washington state. The storm knocked down trees, caused widespread power outages, and led to at least two fatalities. The National Weather Service recorded wind gusts reaching 101 mph off the British Columbia coast, with 77 mph gusts reported inland in Washington.
In Bellevue, Washington, a woman died when a tree fell onto her home while she was in the shower. A second fatality occurred in Lynnwood, where a tree collapsed on a homeless encampment. The storm’s impact is being felt just as millions of Americans prepare to travel for Thanksgiving, with additional severe weather threatening the holiday journey.
Power Outages and Ongoing Storms
Nearly 500,000 people in Washington were without power by Wednesday afternoon, according to PowerOutage.us. Meanwhile, an “atmospheric river” is expected to follow the bomb cyclone, bringing heavy rain and snow to northern California, Oregon, and Washington.
The National Weather Service has warned of blizzard-like conditions in the Washington Cascades due to substantial snowfall in higher elevations. This continued storm could complicate travel and lead to flooding in some regions.
Winter Storms Sweep the U.S.
As the bomb cyclone dissipates, another system is sweeping across the Plains, bringing near-blizzard conditions to the northern Midwest, particularly in North Dakota, South Dakota, and northwest Minnesota. This storm follows severe thunderstorms and a tornado in Oklahoma earlier this week.
Snow, high winds, and frigid temperatures will cause hazardous conditions in the northern Plains, with the heaviest snow expected across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and the Dakotas.
Snow and Cold Rain Forecast for the Northeast
A separate system developing over the Great Lakes will bring colder temperatures and a mix of snow and rain to the Ohio Valley and Northeast. Winter weather warnings are in effect for areas from the mid-Atlantic to New England, where up to a foot of snow is expected in parts of West Virginia and Maryland.
By Thursday and Friday, portions of northeast Pennsylvania and New York’s Catskill Mountains may see up to four inches of snow, while the rest of the Northeast will experience cold rain.
Thanksgiving Travel Update
Nearly 80 million Americans are expected to travel more than 50 miles for Thanksgiving, with Tuesday and Wednesday anticipated to be the busiest travel days, according to AAA.
The U.S. Climate Prediction Center indicates a higher-than-usual chance of rain in the Pacific Northwest, upper Midwest, and Great Lakes early next week, which could impact travel plans.
Travel Tips for Safety
With severe winter weather moving across the country, experts advise taking precautions. Ensure your home is secure, prepare emergency kits, and make sure your vehicle is ready for icy roads. Stay updated with weather forecasts to avoid delays and ensure safe travels during the Thanksgiving holiday.
As the bomb cyclone wreaks havoc and winter storms spread across the U.S., planning ahead and staying informed will be essential for a safe and successful holiday season.
