Two people were killed near Seattle as a result of back-to-back storms that hit the Pacific Northwest, leaving more than half a million homes and businesses without power. The storms, described as a “bomb cyclone,” brought high winds, rain, and snowfall, causing damage and disruptions throughout Washington state. Snow, freezing rain, and blizzard conditions affected eastern Washington, prompting warnings for residents to travel cautiously.
In western Washington, a woman was killed by a falling tree at a homeless encampment, while another person lost their life when a tree crashed into their home in a suburb of Seattle. The high winds caused significant damage, with trees falling on cars and power lines, leading to widespread power outages. Emergency services were overwhelmed with calls for help, with firefighters rescuing two people trapped in a trailer by a fallen tree.
The severe weather also impacted Northern California, where heavy rainfall and the threat of flash flooding and debris flows were expected. The National Weather Service warned of extreme rainfall totals and the potential for further storms to develop and strengthen off the Northwest coast.
Climate experts have linked the intensity of these storms to climate change, as a warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, leading to more intense and frequent weather events. The impact of the storms was felt in Canada as well, with strong winds recorded on Vancouver Island. The threat of severe weather and its potential consequences highlight the need for preparedness and adaptation to the effects of climate change.
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