Atmospheric River Deluges US Northwest, Sparking Floods and Disruptions

An intense atmospheric river has unleashed relentless rain on the US Northwest for a third consecutive day, leading to severe flooding, road and rail closures, and potentially claiming two lives.

The heavy rainfall, which has reached up to 8 inches (20 cm), has swollen rivers to dangerous levels and triggered widespread disruptions.

In Oregon and Washington, the deluge has been a double-edged sword. While it brings much-needed relief to areas still suffering from drought conditions, it also exacerbates existing hazards.

Despite the rain’s benefit in alleviating some of the drought issues that have plagued these states, severe or moderate drought conditions persist according to the US Drought Monitor.

The storm, which is drifting south, is expected to continue impacting the region through Wednesday evening before being disrupted by a cold front. Rich Otto, a meteorologist with the Weather Prediction Center, anticipates another 24 to 36 hours of heavy rain, affecting parts of Oregon and northern California.

Tragically, the flooding has resulted in at least two confirmed fatalities. In Washington County near Portland, an unidentified adult male was found deceased in Bronson Creek, with no initial signs of physical injury.

Another individual was presumed drowned in Portland after being swept away by fast-moving waters in Johnson Creek. Rescue operations have been hampered by dangerous conditions, leading to the suspension of search efforts.

The atmospheric river’s impact extends to transportation as well. Passenger train services between Portland and Seattle have been canceled until Thursday due to a landslide north of Vancouver, Washington.

Meanwhile, flood watches remain in effect for Oregon’s Pacific coast, with numerous road closures reported in Tillamook and Clatsop counties.

As the region braces for more rain, officials are closely monitoring the situation and urging residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions.