Cliff Mass warns of an approaching cyclone in Western Washington, comparable in strength to a Category 1 hurricane, with wind gusts expected up to 80 mph. Residents in affected areas, particularly the Cascade foothills, should prepare for power outages and extreme weather conditions, while those in the Puget Sound lowlands may experience less severe impacts. This is projected to be one of the strongest storms in over a decade.
Cliff Mass, a professor from the University of Washington’s Atmospheric Sciences, has warned residents of Western Washington about an impending storm characterized as a powerful cyclone, comparable in strength to a Category 1 hurricane. He disclosed that this storm is anticipated to develop significant wind speeds and size, with gusts potentially reaching up to 60-80 mph, particularly affecting the Washington coast and the Cascade foothills. Mass emphasized that while these weather systems are intense, they are categorized differently than hurricanes due to their differing origins, which rely on pressure differences rather than warm ocean waters for energy. As the cyclone approaches, the strongest impacts are expected in areas such as Enumclaw, Black Diamond, and North Bend, where severe winds could lead to downed trees and widespread power outages. Mass noted the rarity of such extraordinary storm events, highlighting that this phenomenon is likely one of the most robust weather systems to materialize in over a decade. In preparation for the storm, he advised residents in affected areas to take caution, secure outdoor items, and prepare for potential power disruptions, especially in the foothills and coastal regions. For those in the Puget Sound lowlands, while the conditions are expected to be blustery, they are unlikely to experience the damaging winds that will affect areas closer to the mountains. Mass has alerted everyone to stay informed as the situation evolves, advising that residents should begin preparations now to mitigate the impacts of this potentially significant storm, which could disrupt daily life in the coming days.
The article discusses an impending storm approaching Western Washington, as forecasted by Cliff Mass, a respected atmospheric scientist. The cyclone is expected to produce hurricane-strength winds, making it one of the strongest storms to impact the area in recent years. This event highlights the unique climatological factors affecting the Pacific Northwest and the need for residents to prepare accordingly for severe weather events, which, although infrequent, can have significant effects on the community.
In conclusion, the forecast by Cliff Mass regarding the upcoming cyclone emphasizes the importance of preparedness as Western Washington prepares for potentially destructive winds and disruptions. Residents are urged to take the necessary precautions to ensure safety and minimize damage from this extraordinary weather event, which could be one of the strongest storms observed in the last decade. Staying informed and prepared will be crucial in navigating the storm’s impacts.
Original Source: mynorthwest.com
