As the weekend approaches, major cities on both coasts of the United States are gearing up for impactful weather events, with soaking rain and potential flooding dominating the forecasts.
On the Eastern Seaboard, the National Weather Service has issued flood alerts from Washington, D.C., stretching up through Maine.
This expansive alert covers Sunday afternoon through late Sunday night, anticipating a weekend storm that brings with it not only flooding but also rain, thunder, and gusty winds.
Residents in the affected areas, including major cities such as Washington, Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston, are urged to stay updated on the weather conditions, especially considering the potential for wind gusts up to 55 mph.
The forecast predicts a substantial amount of rainfall, with two to three inches expected over much of the region. The risk of flooding is further heightened in Maine due to snowmelt, amplifying concerns for residents and travellers alike.
Meanwhile, on the Pacific Northwest’s horizon, another atmospheric river is making its way toward Oregon and Washington state. Similar to its East Coast counterpart, this storm system threatens the region with heavy rain, potentially reaching up to three inches.
The National Weather Service warns of the possibility of “rapid onset” flooding along the coast, emphasizing the elevated risk in Washington State and Oregon.
Defined by AccuWeather as a phenomenon resembling a “fire hose” of moisture flowing from the Pacific Ocean, atmospheric rivers can bring continuous rain and snow to the western United States.
The impact is visible in the form of extensive water vapour ribbons extending thousands of miles.
Notably, last weekend’s atmospheric river in the Pacific Northwest resulted in flooding-related fatalities and prompted rescue operations by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Landslides disrupted rail services, and schools and roads were forced to close due to the severe weather conditions.
Beyond the coasts, other regions in the U.S. are grappling with weather challenges. The Tennessee Valley and Michigan are experiencing heavy rain and low visibility due to low-pressure systems, with potential for severe storms, isolated tornadoes, and large hail.
Simultaneously, cold air is settling into the middle of the country, bringing winter weather to the Northern Rockies with forecasts indicating moderate to heavy snow and plummeting temperatures.
As the nation faces this multifaceted weather scenario, residents are urged to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and monitor updates from local weather authorities.
Travellers are advised to exercise caution, especially on roads and rail lines that may be affected by flooding.