A Deep Dive into the Atmospheric River Storms Bringing Heavy Rains to the Pacific Northwest and California
Current Situation: A Rainy Weekend in the Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest is experiencing a damp start to the weekend, courtesy of an atmospheric river storm that’s been drenching Washington and Oregon with moderate rain. While the region has weathered the storm thus far without major disruptions, they’re bracing for the arrival of two more atmospheric river storms next week, and these ones are expected to pack a mightier punch, bringing the potential for flooding, torrential downpours, substantial mountain snowfall, and blustery winds, especially in California.
Atmospheric Rivers: Unveiling the Rain-Bearing Phenomenon
Atmospheric rivers, these elongated, slender corridors within the atmosphere, act as conduits, transporting colossal amounts of water vapor from the tropics to higher latitudes. Upon reaching land, these storms can unleash torrential rains and trigger flooding. The upcoming atmospheric river storms are poised to deliver significant precipitation to the West Coast, with California bearing the brunt of their impact.
Pacific Northwest Impact: A Tale of Two Storms
The initial atmospheric river storm brought a steady downpour to the Pacific Northwest, with rainfall accumulations reaching 2-3 inches in the mountains and a respectable 1.50 inches in the lowlands. As the storm migrates northward into Monday, it’s expected to bring heavy rain and raise flood concerns in Vancouver Island and southwestern British Columbia. Northwestern Washington may also experience additional rainfall.
On the flip side, the storm’s warm, tropical air mass will bring a welcome reprieve from the cold, sending temperatures soaring in the Pacific Northwest. Seattle is forecast to hit 60 degrees on Monday, a remarkable feat considering it’s the first time in four Januarys that the city has reached that milestone.
Northern California: Facing the Flood Threat
A second atmospheric river storm is set to descend upon the Pacific Northwest on Tuesday, before embarking on a southerly journey along the Pacific Coast, reaching California by Wednesday. This storm is anticipated to unleash heavy rains and gusty winds, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Level 2 out of 4 flash flood risk for much of the Northern California coastline.
With soils already saturated from previous storms, the incoming rain is likely to cause localized flooding in streams and urban areas, trigger mudslides and shallow landslides, and potentially topple trees due to the strong winds. Persistent high waves also pose a threat of coastal erosion and flooding. Additionally, the higher elevations of the Sierra Nevada could witness significant snowfall.
Southern California’s Rainy Outlook: A Drenching but (Mostly) Manageable Affair
The storm will continue its southward trek, reaching Southern California on Thursday, bringing a day of substantial rainfall to Los Angeles and San Diego. However, flooding concerns are anticipated to be less severe, with rainfall totals estimated to be around 1-2 inches in the lowlands and 2-4 inches in the surrounding mountains and foothills.
While flooding may be less of a concern, gusty winds are expected to accompany the storm in Southern California, increasing the risk of tree damage and power outages.
Long-Range Forecast: A Continued Rainy Pattern
Long-range forecasts suggest that the rainy pattern will persist across California through the end of next week and possibly into the following week. Residents are advised to stay informed about the latest weather updates and heed any warnings or advisories issued by local authorities.
Conclusion: Preparing for the Storm’s Impact
A series of atmospheric river storms is poised to bring torrential rains and the potential for flooding, heavy mountain snow, and strong winds to the Pacific Northwest and California. While the first storm brought moderate rain to the Pacific Northwest, the subsequent storms are expected to be more powerful and could cause significant impacts. Residents are urged to monitor the weather forecast closely and follow any instructions or warnings issued by local authorities.