Stormey Weather: A 'Bomb Cyclone' Strikes the Northwest US

A whopper of a storm hit the northwest United States this week, packing a punch with intense winds and heavy rain. Meteorologists dubbed it a "bomb cyclone, " an event that happens when a storm suddenly gains strength. Also known as an atmospheric river, this storm is a massive stream of moisture from the Pacific that dumps a lot of water when it smacks into the coast. Areas like Portland and northern California were bracing for the worst, with winds expected to hit scary speeds. Even Seattle wasn't safe, with forecasters worrying about power outages and trees falling. Up to 8 inches of rain was predicted for some places, which is not good news for people living in flood-prone areas. Folks were stocking up on supplies and hoping they wouldn't lose power. It was all hands on deck as folks tried to protect their homes from possible flooding and travel was expected to be tough. Despite the storm, officials said life goes on, just be prepared for some rough conditions.