The atmospheric river pattern into California is more appropriately described as an atmospheric tsunami. A 960 MB low-pressure area is forecast off the Oregon Coast tonight. Coupled with the high terrain of California, the interaction will create a widespread dangerous windstorm capable of knocking out power for much of the state, particularly central and north sections. Excessive rain will cause additional flooding in urban areas, rivers, streams, and creeks. Dangerous mountain travel with multiple feet of snow beginning around 6,000 feet.

A dry and hot forecast across a drought area also featuring dry subsurface soil conditions is the recipe for flash drought in Argentina as mid-January approaches.