Thanksgiving Bomb Cyclone of 2019 Remembered
• As Thanksgiving approaches, a retrospective highlights some of the most impactful holiday storms in U.S. history. Among these is the Thanksgiving Bomb Cyclone of 2019, which struck southwest Oregon and northern California on November
• This storm brought flash flooding, heavy snow, and hurricane-force winds, causing significant travel disruptions. The term 'bomb cyclone' refers to a rapidly intensifying storm, often resulting in severe weather conditions such as heavy precipitation, strong winds, and coastal flooding. Other notable Thanksgiving storms include the Great Appalachian Storm of 1950, which caused 160 fatalities and record-breaking snow and flooding, and Hurricane Iwa in 1982, which devastated parts of Hawaii during a Super El Niño year.
Impact & Risks
The Thanksgiving Bomb Cyclone of 2019 caused widespread travel disruptions, particularly in northern California and southwest Oregon. Flash flooding and heavy snow created hazardous conditions, while hurricane-force winds led to power outages and property damage. The Great Appalachian Storm of 1950 left 160 people dead and caused extensive damage across the Ohio Valley and Northeast. Hurricane Iwa in 1982 displaced 500 people and caused over $300 million in damages in Hawaii. These events underscore the potential for severe weather impacts during the holiday season.
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