A powerful storm is expected to hit Northern California and the Pacific Northwest, bringing heavy rain and strong winds that could lead to power outages and flash floods. The Weather Prediction Center has issued excessive rainfall risks from Tuesday through Friday due to the arrival of the strongest atmospheric river of the season. This storm system has intensified rapidly, earning the classification of a 'bomb cyclone' by meteorologists.
The areas most at risk for severe rainfall extend from south of Portland, Oregon, to north of the San Francisco Bay Area. Residents are advised to be cautious of flash flooding in lower elevations and winter storms in higher elevations, as this event is expected to have a significant impact.
In Northern California, flood and high wind watches are in effect, with up to 8 inches of rain predicted for various regions. The northern Sierra Nevada could see up to 15 inches of snow over two days, with wind gusts potentially reaching 75 mph in mountain areas.
Southern California will experience dry conditions this week, accompanied by gusty Santa Ana winds that may increase the risk of wildfires. In southwestern Oregon, 4 to 7 inches of rain are expected, with higher amounts possible in certain areas. A high wind warning has been issued for the Oregon coast, with gusts up to 70 mph anticipated.
Washington is also preparing for strong rainfall, though not as severe as Oregon and California. Coastal areas of Washington are under high wind warnings, with gusts potentially exceeding 35 mph. A blizzard warning has been issued for the Cascades in Washington, including Mount Rainier National Park, with up to a foot of snow and wind gusts up to 60 mph expected.
Additionally, the central and eastern Gulf Coast, including the Florida Panhandle, are at risk for flooding on Tuesday due to forecasted rainfall. Low-lying and urban areas could experience flash floods as a result of the incoming storm.
