Some parts of California and the U.S. Northwest are currently experiencing heavy rainfall due to an atmospheric river event known as the Pineapple Express. This sudden change in weather follows a dry January that contributed to wildfires in Southern California. The storm, centered in northern and central California, is expected to bring a significant amount of rain and snow, potentially causing flooding, power outages, and travel disruptions.
Atmospheric rivers are elongated pathways in the Earth’s atmosphere that transport moisture from tropical regions to higher latitudes. The Pineapple Express, in particular, originates near Hawaii and is known for its prolonged duration. Meteorologists are forecasting several inches of rain for areas in California and Oregon, with the possibility of flooding, avalanches, and strong winds. Cities like San Francisco and Redding could receive a month’s worth of rain within a few days, leading to potential landslides and mudslides.
While the storm is not expected to cause widespread damage as it moves inland, a separate severe weather event is anticipated in the eastern half of the United States later in the week. This system could bring severe thunderstorms, an ice storm, and snowfall, creating hazardous conditions for millions of Americans.
The Pineapple Express storm is a significant weather event that is impacting the West Coast, while different weather challenges are looming for the eastern part of the country.
California may experience mudslides.
