Bomb cyclone strikes northwest US, causing fatalities and widespread power outages
A powerful "bomb cyclone" has struck the northwest U.S., bringing strong winds and heavy rain. The storm has caused widespread power outages, affecting over 530,000 homes in Washington and resulting in at least two fatalities from falling trees. The storm has led to significant rainfall and flooding risks in California, with predictions of over 10 inches in some areas. A winter storm watch is in effect for the Sierra Nevada, where heavy snow and dangerous travel conditions are expected. In addition to the power outages, road closures have occurred due to extreme weather, including an 11-mile stretch of Interstate 5 in Oregon. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for blizzard conditions and advised caution due to falling trees and hazardous travel.