'Bomb cyclone:' Some questions and answers

Meteorologists are watching what could become a " bomb cyclone " — a winter version of a hurricane — forming off the Carolinas from Friday night into Saturday.

The storm could dump snow in the Carolinas, northern Georgia and southern Virginia, according to The Associated Press. After that, it could turn and plow through the Interstate 95 corridor late Saturday into Sunday to dump loads more snow from Washington to Boston.

Newsday meteorologist Geoff Bansen offers some questions and answers:

 What exactly is a 'bomb cyclone?'

A bomb cyclone is a name that was given to the atmospheric process of "explosive cyclogenesis" and is used to describe a quickly and deeply strengthening storm. It has also been referred to as "bombogenesis."

Its true definition is an area of low pressure that undergoes a drop in minimum central pressure of at least 24 millibars (measure of atmospheric pressure) in a 24-hour period. The catalyst for this level of rapid intensification is a sharp temperature gradient, usually cold air over warm ocean water.

 Are bomb cyclones rare for Long Island?

Storms of this magnitude aren't exactly common, though not rare. Long Islanders experience them most often in the form of Nor'easters.

Can Long Island see them at any time?

Although these storms are possible any time of year, they occur most frequently from October to March, when we see the biggest temperature gradients.

What are the most common characteristics of a bomb cyclone?

Heavy precipitation, strong winds and possibly coastal flooding depending on the track of the storm. Since the majority of happen heading into the colder months, blizzard conditions are possible. They can also produce strong thunderstorms and cause flooding in the warmer months.

Is every bomb cyclone a coastal storm?

No, not every one. Just usually the most impactful ones for Long Island. Bomb cyclones can be any area of low pressure.