Cliff Mass Warns of Approaching Cyclone With Hurricane-Strength Winds

Cliff Mass, a University of Washington professor, warns of an approaching cyclone expected to strike Western Washington with hurricane-strength winds of 60 to 80 mph. The storm poses risks of power outages and severe weather conditions, particularly across the Cascade foothills. Residents are urged to prepare for potential disruptions as this uncommon storm rapidly intensifies, marking one of the strongest systems to affect the region in nearly a decade.

Cliff Mass, a professor at the University of Washington Atmospheric Sciences, cautioned that Western Washington is poised to experience a significant storm, comparable in intensity to a hurricane. He described a developing cyclone in the Pacific Ocean, which is expected to generate winds as powerful as 60 to 80 mph, particularly impacting the Washington coast and the areas adjacent to the Cascade foothills. Mass indicated that such formidable weather patterns are rare, occurring only once every decade, underscoring the urgency for residents to prepare for potential power outages and damaging winds. While gusts will be milder around Puget Sound, the real threat remains the extraordinary winds expected in the foothills and coastal regions, prompting Mass to advise precautions against power disruptions and property damage due to these intense weather conditions.

The phenomenon referred to as a cyclone in this instance differs from a hurricane primarily in its formation and energy source. Cyclones in the Pacific derive their strength from variations in temperature and pressure rather than warm water, which fuels hurricanes. Cliff Mass emphasized the rarity of storms of such magnitude and the likelihood of significant impacts from this upcoming system. The cyclone’s rapid intensification is expected to create a significant pressure disparity across the Cascades, leading to potentially destructive winds in the region, particularly around coastal areas and the Cascade foothills.

In conclusion, the imminent cyclone forecasted by Cliff Mass represents one of the most pronounced weather events for Western Washington in a considerable time. The potential for hurricane-strength winds, especially in the foothills, warrants careful preparation among residents in the affected areas. Mass’s recommendations for readiness are crucial as the storm approaches, emphasizing both the unusual nature and seriousness of this weather event.

Original Source: mynorthwest.com