Winter weather warning atmospheric river set to hit California, Northwest hard
An atmospheric river is set to hit California and the Northwest hard, bringing heavy rain and significant snowfall, raising concerns about flooding and travel disruptions following weeks of dry conditions.
A powerful atmospheric river is set to impact the West Coast, bringing much-needed rain and snow to Oregon, Washington, and Northern California over the weekend. Following weeks of dry winds that fueled devastating wildfires around Los Angeles, this storm promises to replenish water supplies but also poses risks of flooding and destruction.
Storm Details and Predictions
The atmospheric river will begin dropping rain across the Pacific Northwest on Thursday, January 30, 2025, before moving south into Northern California. According to Frank Pereira, a senior forecaster at the US Weather Prediction Center, areas could receive up to 7 inches (18 centimeters) of rain and 12 inches or more of snow in the Cascade and Sierra Nevada ranges. "For the next four to five days, it will be a pretty significant rainfall event for at least Northern California," Pereira noted.
Aftermath of Recent Wildfires
This storm arrives after weeks of bone-dry conditions that contributed to wildfires resulting in at least 29 fatalities and the destruction of over 16,000 structures around Los Angeles. The rainfall is expected to be a double-edged sword—while it will help alleviate drought conditions, it also raises concerns about flash flooding in areas recently affected by fires.
Atmospheric River Explained
Atmospheric rivers are narrow corridors of concentrated moisture in the atmosphere capable of carrying water vapor equivalent to the average flow from the mouth of the Mississippi River. The upcoming storm is classified as a Category 1 and 2 event in some areas, which is generally beneficial; however, regions around San Francisco Bay may experience Category 3 and 4 conditions that could lead to destructive impacts.
Preparedness and Warnings
Residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed through National Weather Service updates regarding potential flooding and travel disruptions. As this atmospheric river unfolds, communities brace for both relief from drought and challenges posed by heavy precipitation.
