Bomb Cyclones: The Thanksgiving holiday season is facing significant challenges as a powerful bomb cyclone impacts large swaths of the United States. This meteorological phenomenon is characterized by a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure (bombogenesis) combining with an atmospheric river (a long, concentrated plume of moisture) to bring severe weather across the country. Infact, the North California is already facing all time high rainfall records.
The resulting storms are disrupting travel and daily life just as millions of Americans prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday next week.
The impact of the Bomb Cyclone
The Pacific Northwest has been hit hardest with hurricane-force winds and torrential rain causing widespread damage. In Washington state, gusts reaching up to 77 mph have uprooted trees, damaged infrastructure and left over 300,000 people without power. Tragically, the storm has already claimed lives; two women in Washington were killed by falling trees in separate incidents. These extreme conditions have been compounded by heavy snow in higher elevations with the Cascades and Northern Rockies experiencing near-blizzard conditions.
Further south, Northern California is facing a “high-risk” flood threat due to steady rain from the atmospheric river. Daily rainfall of 2-4 inches and even heavier amounts in mountainous areas is raising concerns about huge flash floods and mudslides. This storm system is set to persist through the weekend increasing the likelihood of severe flooding and travel disruptions.
Thanksgiving travel at risk
The National Weather Service warns that the adverse weather could linger into Thanksgiving week potentially impacting the busiest travel days—Tuesday and Wednesday. With nearly 80 million Americans expected to travel over 50 miles for the holiday, the combination of heavy snowfall, flooding and strong winds may cause significant delays on roads and at airports.
The Midwest is also seeing the effects of another storm system which has collided with Arctic air to create near-blizzard conditions in the Dakotas, Minnesota and Wisconsin. This system has brought heavy snow and strong winds complicating travel plans further. Winter weather alerts are in place from the mid-Atlantic to the Northeast where up to a foot of snow is expected in higher elevations.
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Potential Thanksgiving day weather
While forecasts beyond seven days still remain to come out, weather experts caution that lingering effects from these storms could extend into Thanksgiving Day itself. In particular, road conditions in affected regions may remain hazardous and power restoration efforts could be delayed due to ongoing weather challenges.
For those in the Northeast, rain and snow are expected to taper off by early next week but the higher elevations of the Appalachians could still see significant snowfall. Meanwhile, parts of the Pacific Northwest and California may continue to deal with residual flooding and storm recovery.
7-Day Precipitation Forecast Scale
This scale represents the expected cumulative precipitation over the next 7 days in inches. Please visit the below link for live weather updates.:
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Preparing for Thanksgiving amid severe weather
If you’re planning to travel for Thanksgiving, please consider the following precautions to ensure your and your family’s safety:
- Stay updated on weather conditions: Do regularly check forecasts for your route and destination. Tools like the National Weather Service, PowerOutage.us and AccuWeather provide real-time updates on conditions and outages.
- Prepare for delays: Do allow extra time for travel and have contingency plans in case of flight cancellations or road closures.
- Pack emergency supplies: You can include essentials like food, water, blankets and a phone charger in case of unexpected delays.
- Adjust travel plans: Whenever possible, please avoid traveling on peak days (Tuesday and Wednesday) to minimize the risk of getting caught in adverse weather.
FAQs
What causes a bomb cyclone?
A bomb cyclone occurs due to bombogenesis where a storm rapidly intensifies by dropping at least 24 millibars of pressure within 24 hours. This usually happens when cold air meets warm and moist air creating a powerful low-pressure system. These storms are often found to bringing heavy rain, snow, strong winds and dangerous weather conditions.
What is a Bomb Cyclone?
A bomb cyclone is a rapidly intensifying storm caused by a process called bombogenesis. This occurs when the central pressure of a storm drops by at least 24 millibars within 24 hours leading to extreme weather conditions like strong winds, heavy rain and snow. Bomb cyclones typically form over ocean waters and bring dramatic impacts when they reach land including blizzards, flooding and power outages. They are especially dangerous in winter months when they combine with cold air masses.
What is Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a national holiday primarily celebrated in the United States and Canada. It is a time for expressing gratitude for blessings often marked by family gatherings, feasts and traditions. In the U.S., Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 28, 2024. The holiday traces its origins to a 1621 harvest feast shared between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native Americans. Common traditions include preparing turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie as well as watching parades and football games.
What is the date for Thanksgiving in 2024?
Thanksgiving in 2024 falls on Thursday, November 28.
Is Thanksgiving a U.S. holiday?
Yes, Thanksgiving is a federal holiday in the United States. It is widely celebrated as a day of gratitude, family gatherings and traditional feasts across the U.S.
What week number is Thanksgiving in 2024?
Thanksgiving 2024 takes place during week 48 of the year, 2024.
What day is November 29, 2024?
November 29, 2024, is a Friday. It is also commonly referred to as “Black Friday” marking the start of the holiday shopping season in the whole United States.
Why is Thanksgiving so late in 2024 in the USA?
Thanksgiving’s date is determined by U.S. law to always occur on the fourth Thursday of November. In 2024, November starts on a Friday meaning the fourth Thursday is as late as possible falling on November 28
How does a bomb cyclone affect Thanksgiving travel?
Bomb cyclones can significantly disrupt Thanksgiving travel by causing flight cancellations, road closures and dangerous driving conditions. High winds, blizzards and flooding in affected regions create widespread delays making it challenging for travelers to reach their destinations.
What areas are most affected by the bomb cyclone during Thanksgiving 2024?
This year, the Pacific Northwest, Northern California and parts of the Midwest are facing severe impacts. Washington state has experienced power outages and strong winds while Northern California is dealing with flooding risks. The Midwest is seeing blizzard conditions particularly in the Dakotas, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
How can I prepare for Thanksgiving amid bomb cyclone conditions?
You can prepare for Thanksgiving by monitoring weather updates, planning travel wisely, packing essentials and delaying or cancelling your travel plans.
Conclusion
As we have seen that this year’s Thanksgiving festivities are under the shadow of a powerful and disruptive weather system. From the Pacific Northwest to the Midwest and beyond, the bomb cyclone and its associated atmospheric river are creating treacherous conditions. While the spirit of Thanksgiving persists, it’s crucial to prioritize your and your family’s safety and adapt plans accordingly.
Stay tuned to Hi World News for updates on Thanksgiving and Bomb Cyclone.
