November 23, 2024

Pineapple Express: ‘Pineapple express’: 2 dead as atmospheric river blasts US Northwest with rain, flooding | India News

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NEW DELHI: The Pacific Northwest is currently experiencing severe weather conditions, with heavy rains, floods, and additional snowfall expected to continue for the next 24 hours, according to US weather forecasters. This extreme weather is due to a powerful atmospheric river that has brought tropical moisture to the region, particularly impacting the Cascade Mountains.
Washington and Oregon have witnessed daily rainfall records being shattered on Monday as a result of this atmospheric phenomenon.TheUS National Weather Service (NWS) reported that terrestrial rivers in northwestern Oregon and throughout Washington have overflowed their banks, leading to multiple flood warnings still in effect as of Tuesday evening.
The series of storms sweeping through the area have resulted in at least two fatalities, leading to water rescues, the shutting down of roads and schools, and compelling Amtrak to suspend train services between Seattle and Portland until Thursday due to a landslide.
The NWS has warned that the deluge is expected to persist through Wednesday, with significant rises anticipated in many area rivers and streams this week.
What are atmospheric rivers?
Atmospheric rivers are narrow regions in the atmosphere that transport much of the moisture from the tropics to northern latitudes. They are part of the Earth’s ocean water cycle, and are tied closely to both water supply and flood risks. Atmospheric rivers can lead to severe rain and mountain snow, especially when they encounter mountain ranges along the coast.
What is the Pineapple Express?
The Pineapple Express is a well-known example of a strong atmospheric river that brings warm subtropical moisture across the Pacific from near Hawaii. It can wallop the US and Canada’s West Coasts with heavy rainfall and snow, sometimes causing flash flooding, landslides, and avalanches. The Pineapple Express is named after the tropical fruit because of its origin near Hawaii.
What is the impact of the Pineapple Express on the US Northwest?
The Pineapple Express is forecast to bring a prolonged period of wet weather and the potential for avalanches to Washington and Oregon beginning December 5,. The effects from rain and considerable mountain snow will be felt through early this week. The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned of a high risk of excessive rainfall throughout the weekend, and has issued multiple flood warnings and watches for the region.
(With inputs from agencies)



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