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What is a bomb cyclone? An atmospheric scientist explains

A bomb cyclone over the U.S. East Coast on Jan. 4, 2017. From NOAA and CIRA.

MULLENSWhat is a bomb cyclone? An atmospheric scientist explains

Article first published online: 27 Jan 2022

A bomb cyclone is a large, intense midlatitude storm that has low pressure at its center, weather fronts and an array of associated weather, from blizzards to severe thunderstorms to heavy precipitation. When a cyclone “bombs,” or undergoes bombogenesis, this tells us that it has access to the optimal ingredients for strengthening, such as high amounts of heat, moisture and rising air. Most cyclones don’t intensify rapidly in this way. Bomb cyclones put forecasters on high alert, because they can produce significant harmful impacts.

Read the full publication at The Conversation.