As the Bay Area prepares for an incoming atmospheric river storm, residents are being warned of potential flooding, strong winds, and dangerously high surf conditions. The National Weather Service has issued multiple alerts, urging caution as the storm is expected to bring heavy rain and powerful winds starting Wednesday evening.
Key Takeaways
- Flood Watch: Coastal counties including Marin, Monterey, and San Francisco are under a flood watch from Wednesday night to Saturday night.
- High Wind Watch: Winds could reach up to 70 mph along the coast, with isolated gusts potentially hitting 80 mph.
- High Surf Warning: Waves could reach heights of 20 to 30 feet, with some areas experiencing waves as high as 45 feet.
Storm Timeline
The storm is expected to begin with light rain on Tuesday evening, transitioning to heavier rainfall by Wednesday evening. The forecast indicates that the region will experience off-and-on rain through Thursday and into Friday.
Flooding Potential
The National Weather Service has highlighted the risk of flooding in low-lying areas, along rivers, creeks, and streams. Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to prepare for possible evacuations and to stay informed about local conditions.
Wind Conditions
A high wind watch is in effect for the greater Bay Area from Wednesday evening through Friday morning. The forecast predicts:
- Coastal Winds: 35-40 mph with gusts up to 70 mph.
- Inland Winds: 25-35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph.
Surf Warnings
A high surf warning has been issued for the entire Bay Area coastline from Thursday afternoon until early Saturday morning. The weather service warns that west-facing beaches will face dangerously large waves, with the following expected:
- Breaking Waves: 20-30 feet on average, with some spots reaching up to 45 feet.
- Non-West-Facing Beaches: Waves likely to crest at 15-20 feet, with some climbing as high as 30 feet.
Safety Precautions
Residents are urged to take the following precautions:
- Stay off jetties, piers, and rocks.
- Keep pets on leashes and away from the water.
- Never turn your back on the ocean.
Rainfall Projections
The National Weather Service has provided estimated rainfall totals for various locations through Friday:
- Cloverdale: 2-3 inches
- Santa Rosa: 2-3 inches
- Napa: 2-3 inches
- San Francisco: 2-3 inches
- Santa Cruz: 4-6 inches
- Monterey: 2-3 inches
Thunderstorm Chances
There is also a possibility of isolated thunderstorms across the region between Thursday morning and Friday morning, adding to the unpredictable nature of the storm.
As the Bay Area braces for this severe weather event, residents are encouraged to stay updated on the latest forecasts and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this potentially hazardous storm.
