Pacific Northwest Atmospheric River Storm Triggers Flooding
An atmospheric river storm hit the Pacific Northwest, causing severe flooding and setting daily rainfall records.
Investigation into Deaths as Storm Causes Flooding
Authorities in Oregon were investigating the deaths of two people whose bodies were found in creeks this week as an atmospheric river brought heavy rain, flooding, and unseasonably warm temperatures to the Pacific Northwest.
The U.S. Coast Guard rescued five people from flooded areas on Tuesday, and the conditions also closed rail links, schools, and roads in some areas and shattered daily rainfall and temperature records in Washington state.
Amtrak said that no passenger trains will be running between Seattle and Portland, Oregon, until Thursday because of a landslide.
Rescues and Close Calls
Residents in the affected areas witnessed dramatic rescues and close calls. Nicole Langer, a resident of Grays River in southwestern Washington, filmed the Coast Guard rescuing her neighbor from the roof of her car after attempting to drive through high waters on a flooded road.
Atmospheric rivers, sometimes known as a 'Pineapple Express,' delivered enormous amounts of rain and snow to California last winter. The recent storm brought similar impacts to the Pacific Northwest.
Flood warnings were issued for several rivers in Oregon as well, with reports of minor flooding.
Safety Precautions and Impact
Local organizations working with homeless populations in the area have been taking precautions and providing weather alerts to those living in vulnerable situations.
The wet conditions and flooding also prompted emergency declarations in various counties. Evacuation warnings were issued in flood-prone areas, and Coast Guard helicopters conducted rescues of individuals stranded by the rising waters.
In addition to the flooding, the storm brought record-breaking temperatures to the region, with Seattle experiencing its highest daily temperature on record.
