Summary
A bomb cyclone is a type of storm that strengthens quickly due to a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure. These storms can bring strong winds, heavy rain, and snow, leading to dangerous conditions like power outages and fallen trees. Bomb cyclones mainly occur in fall and winter.
Key Facts
- A bomb cyclone forms when a storm's central pressure drops by at least 24 millibars in 24 hours.
- Central pressure measures storm strength; lower pressure means a stronger storm.
- Bomb cyclones can cause heavy rain, snow, and strong winds, leading to power outages and fallen trees.
- These storms can happen any time of year, but are more common in fall and winter.
- They often occur in North America, especially in regions like Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, and the Great Lakes.
- Cold air from the Arctic clashing with warmer air masses helps create these storms.
- The term "bomb cyclone" is used in weather reports to indicate active, severe weather conditions.
