Historic Bomb Cyclone Slams Northern California with Rain, Snow, and Winds
Northern California is being pummeled by a historic atmospheric river fueled by a powerful bomb cyclone, bringing torrential rains, flooding, and heavy snowfall to the region. Another storm system is expected to follow in its wake, further intensifying conditions.
A bomb cyclone forms when cold and warm air collide over the ocean, causing atmospheric pressure to drop rapidly.
A rare Level 4 flood warning, the highest level, was issued for Thursday, with experts describing the atmospheric river as a “firehose of moisture” aimed at the coast. Northern California’s Coastal Range has already received over a foot of rain, with totals potentially reaching record-breaking levels of 16 inches or more by the end of Thursday.
Mountain regions, including the northern Sierra Nevada, are also experiencing significant snowfall, with over a foot already on the ground and more expected through the weekend.
The storms have caused widespread disruptions, including at least a dozen small landslides in the past 24 hours, one of which caused a vehicle crash on Highway 281. Flooded and snow-covered roads have created dangerous travel conditions, with Cal Fire urging drivers to proceed with caution.
As the bomb cyclone moves away, forecasters are monitoring a second system, expected to bring additional gusty winds, rain, and snow starting Friday. While this storm is anticipated to be less intense, it could exacerbate already saturated soils and swollen rivers, increasing the risk of further flooding and debris flows.
Unsettled weather incoming – A series of Storms will move through California over the next several days, with #SoCal catching the tail end of these systems. Most of the energy will remain North of our area, but some Model & Ensemble runs are indicating decent chances for… pic.twitter.com/xB6M4zNo6N
— SoCal Weather Watcher (@SoCalWXwatcher) November 20, 2024
Residents are advised to stay informed, exercise caution, and prepare for continued hazardous conditions as Northern California faces this relentless parade of winter storms.
