Storms Bring Snow, Rain, and Flooding to U.S. Coasts as Thanksgiving Week Approaches
A powerful storm has struck both the West and East Coasts of the U.S., bringing heavy rain, snow, and strong winds, with further weather disruptions expected as Thanksgiving week approaches.
In California, a major storm caused significant damage, including flooding and small landslides, particularly in Northern California. Santa Rosa recorded its wettest three-day period on record, with over 12.5 inches (32 centimeters) of rain. The storm, which intensified rapidly into a “bomb cyclone,” knocked out power to hundreds of thousands, primarily in the Seattle area. By Friday, more than 87,000 residents in the Seattle region were still without electricity due to fallen trees and power lines. Crews worked to clear debris, and warming centers were set up for those without power.
In California, flooding closed parts of scenic Highway 1 in Mendocino County, and no timeline was given for its reopening. The storm’s impacts extended into the Pacific Northwest, where heavy rain and snow were expected, especially in higher elevations. Winter storm warnings were issued for the Sierra Nevada and the California Cascades, and gale warnings were in effect off the coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California. However, some relief was seen by Friday night, with Humboldt County easing evacuation orders along the Eel River after concerns of major flooding subsided.
On the opposite side of the country, a separate storm system moved through the East Coast, bringing much-needed rain to drought-stricken areas. Over two inches (5 centimeters) of rain were expected to fall north of New York City, helping alleviate some of the state’s dry conditions. In northeastern Pennsylvania, snow blanketed the region, particularly in the Pocono Mountains, where up to 17 inches (43 centimeters) fell. School closures were reported, and power outages affected nearly 80,000 residents. West Virginia also saw its first significant snowfall of the season, with up to 10 inches (25.4 centimeters) accumulating in the higher elevations.
The heavy precipitation in the Northeast helped reduce the effects of the ongoing drought, but it was not expected to be a complete drought buster. West Virginia’s ski resorts also benefited from the snow as they prepare for the winter season.
Looking ahead to Thanksgiving, weather in the Northeast will impact travel, with rain and strong winds expected in cities like Boston and New York. The storm will then move further inland, bringing more rain than snow to the mountains. Additionally, rain is expected in the Southeast before moving into the Northeast on Thursday, with the possibility of more snow in northern New England.