November’s Bomb Cyclone: What It Tells Us About the Rise of Extreme Weather in the U.S.

Bomb cyclones, intense storm systems marked by rapid pressure drops of at least 24 millibars within 24 hours (a process known as bombogenesis), have become a defining feature of extreme weather in the United States. Once rare occurrences, these powerful storms are now appearing more frequently, causing widespread destruction and raising concerns about their long-term implications.

A Growing Trend in the U.S.

Over the past few decades, the frequency and impact of bomb cyclones have intensified. The U.S. experiences multiple such events annually, with notable storms occurring in coastal and inland regions. For example, the recent November 2024 bomb cyclone devastated the Pacific Northwest, claiming at least two lives and leaving over 700,000 homes without power. Wind gusts reached 75 mph, toppling trees and damaging infrastructure.

Data from the National Weather Service (NWS) indicates that bomb cyclones are becoming a staple of winter weather, particularly along the East Coast. Between 1980 and 2020, the number of bomb cyclones in the Atlantic basin increased by approximately 40%. This trend is partly driven by warmer ocean temperatures, which provide the energy needed for rapid storm intensification.

Regional Hotspots for Bomb Cyclones

• East Coast and Nor’easters
  The U.S. East Coast is a well-documented hotspot for bomb cyclones, often manifesting as nor’easters. In January 2018, a bomb cyclone blizzard dumped over 16 inches of snow across New England, paralyzing cities and causing billions in damages. According to NOAA, such storms are increasingly fueled by a warming Atlantic Ocean, contributing to higher moisture levels and more intense snowfall.
• Pacific Northwest and Atmospheric Rivers
  On the West Coast, bomb cyclones often coincide with atmospheric rivers—narrow bands of concentrated moisture in the atmosphere. The October 2021 Northeast Pacific bomb cyclone, with a central pressure of 942 millibars, became one of the strongest storms ever recorded in the region. Similarly, the November 2024 storm underscored the vulnerability of the Pacific Northwest, highlighting the interplay between atmospheric rivers and extreme cyclogenesis.
• Midwest and Plains
  Bomb cyclones occasionally sweep through the Midwest, bringing blizzards and severe weather. In March 2019, the "Bomb Cyclone Blizzard" caused record flooding across Nebraska and Iowa, with damages exceeding $1.3 billion.

Contributing Factors to Increased Frequency

Experts point to climate change as a key driver behind the growing prevalence and intensity of bomb cyclones. Rising ocean temperatures and an increasingly unstable jet stream create ideal conditions for rapid storm development.

Dr. Jennifer Francis, a senior scientist at the Woodwell Climate Research Center, explains, “Warming oceans are the fuel for these storms. The increased heat and moisture create an environment where storms can intensify much more rapidly than in the past.”

Additionally, the Arctic's warming at twice the global average has disrupted traditional weather patterns, leading to a more erratic jet stream. This phenomenon can trap cold air masses over the U.S., enhancing the conditions for bombogenesis.

Economic losses from bomb cyclones are mounting. NOAA estimates that winter storms, including bomb cyclones, cost the U.S. an average of $3 billion annually in damages and recovery efforts.

Preparing for the Future

With bomb cyclones projected to increase in frequency and severity, preparedness is critical. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) advises residents in vulnerable areas to:

• Keep emergency supplies, including food, water, and backup power sources.
• Stay informed with real-time weather updates from local authorities.
• Strengthen homes and infrastructure to withstand high winds and flooding.

Dr. Michael Mann, a leading climate scientist, emphasizes the need for proactive policies. “We must address the root causes of climate change to mitigate these extreme weather events. At the same time, infrastructure investments are needed to improve resilience against the inevitable storms.”

Looking Ahead

The rise of bomb cyclones in the U.S. is a stark reminder of the evolving nature of extreme weather. From the East Coast's nor’easters to the Pacific Northwest's atmospheric rivers, these storms are reshaping regional landscapes and testing the limits of preparedness. As communities brace for future storms, addressing the underlying drivers of climate change remains paramount in reducing their devastating impacts.