Powerful storm classified as bomb cyclone approaches West Coast
A powerful storm is approaching the West Coast, classified as a "bomb cyclone." This term describes a rapid intensification of a cyclone, occurring when cold and warm air masses collide, leading to a significant drop in atmospheric pressure. The National Weather Service defines a bomb cyclone as a storm that decreases 24 millibars or more in 24 hours. This storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and winter storms to northern California and the Pacific Northwest. Bomb cyclones can occur in various ocean regions, not just the West Coast. Recent examples include Hurricane Milton in Florida and a 2018 storm that caused severe weather in the Southeast.