Wed Nov 20 09:56:51 UTC 2024: ## Powerful Bomb Cyclone Slams US Northwest, Leaving One Dead and Hundreds of Thousands Without Power

**Seattle, WA – November 20, 2024** – A powerful “bomb cyclone” swept across the US Northwest on Tuesday, November 19th, causing widespread devastation and claiming at least one life. The storm, characterized by hurricane-force winds and torrential rain, brought down trees, triggered widespread power outages, and led to dangerous flooding.

The National Weather Service issued excessive rainfall warnings through Friday, November 22nd, as the region grappled with the impacts of what forecasters called the strongest atmospheric river of the season. In Washington state alone, over 600,000 homes were without power early Wednesday morning, though the exact number remains uncertain due to widespread internet outages hampering reporting. Oregon reported more than 15,000 outages, and California nearly 19,000.

One fatality was reported in Lynnwood, Washington, where a large tree fell on a homeless encampment, killing a woman. In Seattle, a tree fell onto a vehicle, trapping an individual who was later reported to be in stable condition. Numerous other incidents of downed trees damaging homes and blocking roads were reported across the region.

The storm’s intensity was evident in the recorded wind speeds: gusts reached 101 mph (163 kph) off the coast of Vancouver Island, 79 mph (127 kph) along the Oregon coast, and 77 mph (124 kph) at Mount Rainier. The National Weather Service warned residents to avoid exterior rooms and windows and to exercise caution while driving.

Northern California also faced flood and high wind watches, with up to 8 inches (20 centimeters) of rain predicted for parts of the San Francisco Bay Area, North Coast, and Sacramento Valley. The threat of flash flooding, rock slides, and debris flows was significant. A winter storm watch was issued for the northern Sierra Nevada, with up to 15 inches (28 centimeters) of snow expected.

A blizzard warning was issued for much of the Washington Cascades, including Mount Rainier National Park. Ferry services were also disrupted due to rough seas and winds. The National Weather Service continues to urge caution and preparedness as the storm system moves through the region.

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