'Bomb Cyclone' batters Northwest US, leaving over 600,000 in the dark and one dead

A fierce storm that swept through the northwest United States on Tuesday evening has resulted in widespread damage, including at least one confirmed death, extensive power outages, and dangerous weather conditions. Known as a “bomb cyclone,” the storm intensified rapidly, bringing powerful winds and heavy rain to Washington, Oregon, and California.

Fatalities and Severe Property Damage
In Lynnwood, Washington, a woman tragically died when a large tree fell onto a homeless encampment, according to South County Fire. The incident was reported on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday night. In Seattle, a tree fell on a vehicle, trapping a person temporarily. Fortunately, the Seattle Fire Department later confirmed that the individual was in stable condition.

The Bellevue Fire Department, located about 10 miles east of Seattle, posted on X: “Trees are coming down all over the city & falling onto homes. If you can, go to the lowest floor and stay away from windows. Do not go outside if you can avoid it.” The message warned of continued hazards, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during the height of the storm.

Power Outages Affect Hundreds of Thousands
The storm has left over 600,000 people without power in Washington state by early Wednesday morning, with outage numbers fluctuating as weather and utility services struggled to report data due to internet disruptions. Other areas, including Oregon and California, have also been significantly affected. In Oregon, over 15,000 people were without power, and nearly 19,000 in California experienced outages.

Intense Winds and Ongoing Warnings
Wind gusts during the storm have been severe, with the National Weather Service (NWS) reporting winds as high as 101 mph (163 kph) off Vancouver Island in Canada. In Oregon, winds reached 79 mph (127 kph), while Mount Rainier in Washington recorded gusts of 77 mph (124 kph). The NWS predicted winds would intensify throughout the evening, and warned residents to take precautions, especially concerning fallen trees.

The NWS further advised residents on the West Coast to be cautious of the risk of falling trees and debris, stating: “Stay safe by avoiding exterior rooms and windows and by using caution when driving.”

Flooding and Snow Risks Across the Region
The storm is also bringing significant rainfall and snowfall. Northern California has been placed under flood and high wind watches, with up to 8 inches (20 cm) of rain expected in parts of the San Francisco Bay Area, North Coast, and Sacramento Valley. The National Weather Service issued warnings for flash flooding, rockslides, and debris flows, which are expected in these areas.

In addition to heavy rainfall, winter storm warnings have been issued for the Sierra Nevada mountains in northern California. The NWS predicts up to 15 inches (38 cm) of snow in higher elevations above 3,500 feet (1,066 meters), with wind gusts possibly exceeding 75 mph (120 kph). This could lead to hazardous travel conditions and visibility issues in mountain areas.

Blizzards and Travel Disruptions
A blizzard warning was issued for much of the Cascades in Washington, including Mount Rainier National Park. Up to a foot (30 cm) of snow is expected in higher elevations, with winds gusting up to 60 mph (97 kph). Travel across mountain passes could be particularly dangerous, with conditions making driving extremely difficult. Additionally, ferry services between Port Townsend and Coupeville in northwestern Washington were halted due to rough seas and high winds.

Ongoing Safety Warnings and Updates
Authorities continue to monitor the storm as it moves across the region, with the National Weather Service keeping a close eye on the situation. People in affected areas have been urged to remain indoors, especially during the height of the storm, and to take extra precautions when travelling or near trees.

The storm, classified as a “bomb cyclone” by weather experts, is a reminder of the dangers posed by rapidly intensifying weather systems. As of Wednesday, the full extent of the storm’s impact is still being assessed, but the damage and risk to public safety remain a primary concern for authorities.