A powerful “bomb cyclone” is intensifying off the West Coast of the United States, set to unleash heavy rain, hurricane-force winds, and significant snowfall across California and the Pacific Northwest. Satellite images have captured stunning visuals of the storm as it nears landfall.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s GOES-West satellite has provided dramatic timelapse footage, showing the cyclone’s classic comma-shaped structure. This formation is typical of rapidly intensifying mid-latitude storms, underscoring the immense size and power of this system.

Meteorologists warn that this could be one of the strongest low-pressure systems on record for the region. Northern California, in particular, could see up to 16 inches of rain over the course of 48 hours, an amount equivalent to over a month’s worth of precipitation.

A “bomb cyclone” occurs when a storm undergoes “bombogenesis,” a process where the central pressure drops rapidly, causing the system to strengthen explosively. This particular storm is intensifying at such a rapid pace that it may exceed traditional criteria for bomb cyclones, potentially reaching “triple-bomb” status.

In addition to the heavy rain, the cyclone is expected to produce hurricane-force winds along the coast and in mountainous areas. Blizzard warnings are in effect for parts of the Cascades, where snowfall could exceed a foot and wind gusts may reach 60 mph.

Authorities are urging residents to prepare for flash flooding, power outages, and hazardous travel conditions. The combination of heavy rainfall and strong winds could bring down trees and power lines, especially in urban areas. While the storm will provide much-needed relief to drought-stricken regions, the sudden influx of water could overwhelm drainage systems and increase the risk of mudslides, particularly in areas recently affected by wildfires.