Weather Warning: Pacific Northwest and Gulf Coast Prepare for Storms

Get ready for a wild week of weather! Both the Pacific Northwest and the Gulf Coast are gearing up for some serious storms. A strong low-pressure system is on its way, bringing damaging winds, heavy rain, and snow to the Pacific Northwest. This system could see winds reaching up to 70 mph in northern California, Washington, and Oregon. Expect power outages and tree damage in the hardest-hit areas. Flood watches are already in place for parts of California, including the northern and central Sacramento Valley, Shasta County, and western Colusa County. Temperatures have dropped significantly, with Paso Robles hitting a chilly 25 degrees Fahrenheit on Monday. An atmospheric river, or a narrow band of moisture that can cause severe weather, is set to hit California's Redwood Coast and northern mountain ranges on Wednesday. This could bring 5 to over 10 inches of rain, leading to floods and mudslides. The peak threat is expected on Thursday. Down south, the eastern and central Gulf Coast can expect heavy rain and potential flash floods. Areas from eastern Louisiana to the western Florida Panhandle are at the highest risk. Additionally, a deep low-pressure system will bring moderate to heavy rain across the Plains region, with a slight chance of severe thunderstorms. Meteorologists advise everyone in affected areas to stay tuned to local news and alerts. Avoid traveling through hazardous conditions. As NBC meteorologist Angie Lassman put it, "This is going to be a big one. "