​Atmospheric river brings snowfall and flooding risks as bomb cyclone strikes Pacific

A powerful storm hit Northern California on Thursday, causing heavy rain and snow, and triggering warnings for flash floods, rockslides, and hazardous travel conditions due to an atmospheric river bringing intense moisture to the region. (Photo credit: AP)

The storm is expected to bring up to 16 inches of rain to Northern California and southwestern Oregon, raising concerns about flash flooding, mudslides, and debris flows. Some areas, including Santa Rosa, experienced up to 5 inches of rain in 24 hours. (Photo credit: AP)

Authorities reported several landslides across Northern California, including a significant one on Highway 281 that caused a vehicle crash. The National Weather Service warned of continued rockslides and dangerous conditions for travelers, particularly in mountain areas. (Photo credit: AP)

Winter storm warnings were issued for the Sierra Nevada above 3,500 feet, with up to 15 inches of snow expected. Mountain regions could experience wind gusts exceeding 75 mph, creating treacherous conditions and near-impossible travel at higher elevations. (Photo credit: AP)

In Washington, the storm caused over 320,000 power outages and left two people dead due to falling trees. One fatality occurred when a tree struck a homeless encampment in Lynnwood, and another in Bellevue when a tree fell on a house. (Photo credit: AP)

The storm led to school closures across the Seattle area, with over a dozen schools shut down due to power outages and fallen trees. Some schools opted to extend closures into Thursday, affecting thousands of students and staff. (Photo credit: AP)

The storm caused travel disruptions in California, including severe delays on Interstate 5, where snow and icy conditions led to reduced traffic. Additionally, over 150 flights were delayed and two dozen were canceled at San Francisco International Airport. (Photo credit: AP)

In Oregon and Washington, the storm triggered a flood watch and halted ferry services between Port Townsend and Coupeville due to rough seas and winds, adding to the disruption caused by the powerful weather system affecting the entire West Coast. (Photo credit: AP)