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Severe Storms Hit U.S.: Snow, Ice, and Tornado in California
Dec
Severe Storms Sweep Across the U.S.: Heavy Snow, Dangerous Ice, and a Tornado in California
The United States has recently faced a wave of severe weather, impacting various regions with heavy snow, ice storms, and even a rare tornado in California. Here’s a detailed look at these dramatic weather events and their effects across the country.
A Tornado Strikes Central California
In a rare and alarming event, a tornado touched down near a shopping mall in Scotts Valley, California, approximately 70 miles south of San Francisco. The tornado, which struck around 1:40 p.m., overturned cars, uprooted trees, and downed utility poles. The National Weather Service reported that several people were injured and taken to hospitals. This marks the first tornado warning issued in San Francisco, highlighting the unprecedented nature of this storm. Roger Gass, a meteorologist with the weather service’s office in Monterey, noted the significance of the warning, as the city had not experienced a tornado since 2005.
Ice Storms Create Treacherous Conditions in the Midwest
The Midwest states were not spared from the inclement weather, with a major ice storm hitting regions such as Iowa and eastern Nebraska. Beginning on Friday evening, the storm created hazardous driving conditions, leading to numerous accidents and temporary closures of Interstate 80. The Washington County Sheriff’s office in Nebraska reported a tragic incident where a 57-year-old woman lost her life after her pickup truck slid on icy roads and collided with an oncoming vehicle.
Heavy Snowfall in Upstate New York
Upstate New York experienced heavy snowfall, particularly in areas prone to lake-effect snow. Orchard Park reported over 33 inches of snow, creating a winter wonderland but also posing significant challenges for residents and travelers.
Severe Weather Around Lake Tahoe
The Sierra Nevada region, including Lake Tahoe, faced severe weather warnings with significant snowfall and strong winds. Some ski resorts received more than a foot of snow, and wind gusts reached 112 mph at Mammoth Mountain resort. Despite the winter storm warning, the Tahoe Live music festival at Palisades Tahoe ski resort continued as planned, featuring performances by Lil Wayne and Diplo.
Impacts on Travel and Power Outages
The severe weather led to numerous travel disruptions and power outages across different regions. In California, Interstate 80 was closed for an 80-mile stretch from Applegate to the Nevada line, later reopening with restrictions. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of people in western Washington state lost electricity due to rain and gusty winds.
Looking Ahead
Meteorologists forecast that warmer air moving in behind these weather systems would help alleviate some of the immediate impacts, particularly in the Midwest. However, the recent storms have served as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and often severe nature of winter weather in the United States.
Severe Storms Hit U.S.: Snow, Ice, and Tornado in California
