Powerful ‘Pineapple Express’ Storm Hits West Coast, Brings Heavy Rain and Snow
The West Coast of the United States is currently experiencing the impact of a powerful storm known as a “Pineapple Express.” This atmospheric river, which originates in the tropical Pacific, has brought heavy rain showers and mountain snow to the region, causing residents to prepare for potentially dangerous conditions.
The first storm hit on Wednesday, with satellite images showing clouds stretching from Los Angeles, California, to Juneau, Alaska. AccuWeather describes this storm as a “giant firehose” funneling copious amounts of moisture southward through California until Thursday night. The National Weather Service predicts heavy rain across Southern California as the storm transitions overnight. Northern and Central California can expect upper-elevation mountain snow.
With over 20 million people under weather alerts across the state, there is a heightened risk of flooding, high winds, mudslides, power issues, coastal erosion, and property damage. In response, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services has activated its operations center and positioned personnel and equipment in high-risk areas.
While residents may experience a partially dry weekend, a second, potentially stronger storm is forecasted to hit from Sunday to Monday. According to climate scientist Daniel Swain from the University of California, Los Angeles, this upcoming storm has the potential to be much more intense.
The first storm made landfall in Northern California on Wednesday, bringing brief hourly rain rates of 0.5 to 1 inch. Flash flooding is possible along the Northern and Central California coastline. The Bay Area issued a flood advisory for several counties, including San Francisco, San Mateo, Marin, and Sonoma. A high wind warning is also in effect for counties along the north and central coast, with peak wind gusts of 60 to 70 mph observed.
Due to the wet and windy conditions, numerous parks and outdoor events have been closed across the Bay Area. The California Highway Patrol has urged drivers to be cautious, as the rain has already caused accidents. Additionally, the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) reported power outages in Redwood City and Sacramento.
AccuWeather forecasts that much of Northern California and the coastal areas of Southern California will receive 1 to 4 inches of rain, with localized amounts up to 6 inches along the west- and southwest-facing Coast Ranges. Strong winds will also continue to impact Northern and Central California, increasing the risk of fallen trees and resulting power outages.
Amidst the storm, there has been a viral video spreading misinformation about its severity. The California Office of Emergency Services debunked the video, stating that while flooding is a historical occurrence in the state, residents need not fear as long as they take basic steps to be prepared.
Atmospheric rivers, such as the Pineapple Express, play a significant role in the Earth’s water cycle. These ribbons of water vapor pick up moisture from tropical regions and deliver it as rain or snow in cooler regions. They are responsible for up to 65% of extreme rain and snow events in the western United States and contribute to a significant portion of annual precipitation on the West Coast.
As the West Coast continues to face the impacts of this powerful storm, residents are advised to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and follow any guidance or alerts issued by local authorities.