WASHINGTON STATE – A powerful storm, described as a “bomb cyclone,” tore through the Pacific Northwest on Wednesday, causing extensive power outages, travel disruptions, and multiple casualties.
The storm brought tropical-storm-force winds of up to 70 mph (110 kph), downing trees and power lines across Washington, Oregon, Northern California, and parts of Canada’s British Columbia.
Casualties and Damage
- A woman in Lynnwood, north of Seattle, died when a tree fell on a homeless encampment.
- Another woman near Seattle was killed when a tree fell on her home in Bellevue.
- Two individuals were injured after a tree fell on their trailer in Maple Valley, southeast of Seattle.
- Cars and homes across western Washington were crushed by falling trees, as reported by local fire departments.
Power outages affected over 600,000 customers across the Pacific Northwest, while 225,000 residents in British Columbia also lost electricity, with about 100,000 customers still in the dark by Wednesday morning.
Travel and Safety Warnings
- The Washington State Department of Transportation reported widespread road closures due to downed trees and hazardous conditions, urging motorists to remain cautious.
- Residents in Bellevue and other affected areas were advised to stay indoors, avoid windows, and move to lower floors if possible.
Storm Path and Impacts
Meteorologists warned that the storm would stall over Northern California in the coming days, bringing heavy rainfall. By Friday, areas in southwestern Oregon and northern California could see up to 20 inches (508 mm) of rain.
What is a Bomb Cyclone?
A “bomb cyclone” occurs when a storm rapidly intensifies within 24 hours or less, a process called bombogenesis. This phenomenon is triggered by the collision of a cold polar air mass with warm tropical air, resulting in extreme weather conditions.
The National Weather Service has issued widespread flood, high wind, and blizzard warnings from northern Washington to the Sierra Nevada Range.
As the storm moves south, authorities are bracing for additional impacts, with residents urged to monitor updates and take necessary precautions.