Weather Warnings in Washington State: Brace for Strong Winds and Rain

Get ready, Washington State! Two big storms are on their way, one on Tuesday and the other on Wednesday. The second storm is something special, dropping pressure fast and growing stronger in the Pacific. Meteorologist Maddie Kristell from Seattle's National Weather Service says we're not used to seeing this much power so early in the season. Professor Cliff Mass from the University of Washington thinks this storm could rival a hurricane. But don't worry just yet. Kristell says Washington might not take the full force of the storm. Those in the Strait of Juan de Fuca and along the coast should expect the worst winds, gusting up to around 65 miles per hour! People inland and near Bellingham will feel winds around 35-40 miles per hour. This storm is scheduled to hit Washington on Tuesday afternoon, around 4 or 5 p. m. , and last through the night. The storm system is expected to cause heavy mountain snow, rain, and strong winds in Washington and Northern California. Be prepared for flash floods, tricky travel, power cuts, and tree damage. Some people call this type of storm a "bomb cyclone. " That means the pressure drops by 24 millibars in just 24 hours! But is this storm intense enough? We'll see. Experts say a bomb cyclone is extra powerful at higher latitudes. Kristell thinks it's possible, but not confirmed. Whatever it's called, flooding isn't the main worry. The National Weather Service calls for wind and flood advisories. Don't expect too much rain, but wind will be a big deal in the Puget Sound region.