California braces for heavy rain from approaching bomb cyclone

Northern California is preparing for heavy rain from a "bomb cyclone." This term describes a storm that rapidly strengthens, with pressure dropping at least 24 millibars within 24 hours, though this can vary by latitude. The concept originated from a 1980 research paper by MIT meteorologists, who refined earlier definitions of rapidly deepening storms. The term "bomb" reflects the explosive nature of these storms due to quick pressure drops. To determine if a storm qualifies as a bomb cyclone, meteorologists use a formula based on the storm's latitude. This calculation adjusts the pressure drop requirement according to the storm's location.