Summary
A powerful heat dome over the southwestern United States is causing unusual heat in California and driving an atmospheric river that is bringing heavy rain to Washington. This weather pattern is creating both extreme heat and flooding conditions in different parts of the West.
Key Facts
- A heat dome is causing very warm, dry air in the southwestern U.S., including California.
- This heat dome is pushing storms northward into Washington state.
- As a result, heavy rain is falling in Washington, with flood warnings in place.
- The rain is part of a "Pineapple Express," which is a type of moisture-rich storm that starts near Hawaii.
- This storm is causing snow to melt in areas like the Cascades.
- Rain totals could reach up to 13 inches in parts of Washington, leading to possible flooding.
- The weather is resulting in contrasting conditions, with heat in California and rain in the Pacific Northwest.
