Portland did not break any rainfall records, according to the meteorological service, but the storm this week undoubtedly brought a lot of precipitation to the Pacific Northwest.
This satellite image shows what is known as an atmospheric river.
The West Coast is being impacted by a system of low pressure over the Pacific Ocean. The GOES-W satellite displays a low’s defined cyclonic circulation. Take a look at that spin! Check out the latest local forecast at https://t.co/3SFImIwQhQ.#ORWX#WAWXpic.twitter.com/NaniB3WjI1.
The average atmospheric river conveys an amount of water vapor nearly equal to the average flow of water at the mouth of the Mississippi River, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, despite the fact that atmospheric rivers can vary widely in size and power.
The storm system that hit western Oregon on Monday caused gusty gusts and some minor flooding.
