When one hears the word bomb cyclone, they think of dystopian turmoil that leaves society in rubble and hopelessness. However, a bomb cyclone actually has nothing to do with bombs. According to BBC, it is defined as a cyclone or a “storm that appears to intensify rapidly, with its central air pressure dropping to at least 24 millibars in 24 hours.” What’s unique about this is that it is actually known for being a winter hurricane, and will occur only in the winter months.
The west coast is currently experiencing a severe and historically strong bomb cyclone which has been reported to already kill 2 people and cause power outages that could last for days as said by CNN weather.
Not only are the winds becoming increasingly worse, reaching up to 77mph, they are actually becoming a threat to civilians. In fact, as reported by CNN weather, one of the trees that was taken out by the winds killed a woman showering in her own home.
“I really hope that the power outages get better and that the people who are near the larger gusts of wind seek help. This is the first time I am seeing something like this, and I am honestly quite surprised,” said Safiya Ali, a junior at Briar Woods High school.
According to the Seattle Times, over 400,000 people do not have power, specifically those who are customers of Puget Sound Energy. They claim this storm to be the reason for Seattle’s most severe power outages since 2006. Although this storm already posed threats for more wind damage and power outages, it is also a threat for fire risks in California.
Fire risks can happen before the bomb cyclone occurs. Typically large gusts of wind round up, creating the risk of forest fires. The fire risks or alerts have to be looked through different points of views however. The original fire threats came from the strong gusts of winds and dry conditions from Santa Ana, as said by the Los Angeles Times. If these dry conditions do not take place, which they most likely will not, then the rains from the cyclone will actually help stop the fire from even occurring.
Overall, this cyclone is very rare and it is important to make sure to prepare before the storm hits. Specifically for cyclones, many people recommend wearing strong shoes, protective clothing, locking doors, turning off power, saving water and food, and bringing emergency kits wherever you go. More weather updates are constantly posted on the New York Times, Weather Channel, and any news station, however this storm will likely not affect the east coast.
