A powerful storm system classified as a "bomb cyclone" has unleashed heavy rainfall and destructive winds across Northern California, leading to widespread power outages, road closures, and hazardous travel conditions.
The storm, which began Tuesday, brings the strongest atmospheric river of the season to California, Oregon and Washington. Forecasters predict up to 16 inches of rain in Northern California through Friday, prompting flood watches north of San Francisco that extend into Saturday.
Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) reported approximately 20,000 customers without power in California as the storm's intense winds and heavy precipitation impacted utility infrastructure. The severe weather has forced multiple road closures, including an 11-mile stretch of southbound Interstate 5 near the Oregon border.
The National Weather Service warns of dangerous flash flooding, rock slides, and debris flows throughout the region. Mountain areas could experience wind gusts exceeding 75 mph, while the northern Sierra Nevada faces a winter storm watch above 3,500 feet with potential snowfall reaching 15 inches over two days.
The storm's impact extends beyond California, affecting Oregon and Washington state, where two weather-related fatalities have been reported due to falling trees. Emergency officials advise residents to avoid exterior rooms and windows during high winds and exercise extreme caution while driving.
In the Lake Tahoe area, the severe weather has disrupted winter recreation, with Mt. Rose Ski Resort shutting down all chairlifts due to dangerous wind conditions. The combination of heavy, wet snow and powerful winds has created blizzard conditions in higher elevations, with snow accumulating at rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour.
Local authorities continue to monitor the situation as the atmospheric river system moves through the region, with peak intensity expected to persist through Friday.