A major winter storm is hitting the eastern United States, bringing heavy snow—up to a foot in some areas of New York and Maine—but it won’t meet the criteria for a “bomb cyclone,” despite its intensity. The system is still expected to deliver significant disruption, but understanding the difference between a severe winter storm and a bomb cyclone is crucial.
Storm Development and Intensity
The current weather event originates from a low-pressure system that moved eastward from the Midwest. This disturbance is now fueling a secondary low-pressure area developing off the mid-Atlantic coast. While this new system will strengthen considerably as it moves towards Cape Cod, it’s projected to fall just short of “bomb cyclone” status.
A bomb cyclone is officially defined by a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure within 24 hours. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), at latitudes like New York City (around 40 degrees), this means a pressure decrease of approximately 18 millibars. The current storm is intensifying, but not at this rate.
Regional Impacts: Snow, Rain, and Winds
The heaviest snowfall—between 8 and 12 inches—is forecast for southern New England and New York State. However, warmer air is being pulled into the most densely populated areas of the Northeast and mid-Atlantic. As a result, cities like Boston and Washington D.C. will primarily see rain or a mix of precipitation. Strong winds are also expected, particularly in Maine, alongside the snowfall.
What’s Next? Continued Cold Through December
Most of the precipitation should clear by Wednesday morning. However, the eastern and central U.S. will continue to experience waves of cold air through the weekend. Experts predict this pattern may persist throughout December, indicating a potentially prolonged period of colder-than-average temperatures.
Despite not being a bomb cyclone, this storm serves as a reminder of the powerful winter weather systems that can rapidly develop and disrupt daily life. The distinction highlights the importance of precise meteorological definitions when discussing severe weather events.
