The Bay Area is gearing up for a wet and windy weekend, with forecasters at the National Weather Service San Francisco indicating the return of rain and wind today extending into tonight. The inclement weather is due to a cold front moving over the region, promising fair weather only to return early next week. Meanwhile, temperatures are expected to remain mild, with highs in the upper 50s and lows in the 40s, despite the cloud cover.
According to an update from the National Weather Service San Francisco, precipitation totals will vary across the region. The North Bay hills could see around 2-3 inches, with rain totals gradually decreasing further south. The cold front will also bring breezy to gusty westerly winds of 20-30 mph, with some areas potentially experiencing gusts up to 40 mph. As for the rain timing, it should start in the North Bay around 5 AM, reaching the Golden Gate around 7 AM, and the South Bay around 10 AM, eventually dying down by Sunday.
The NWS Bay Area's post from this morning confirmed the arrival of the light rain, which is expected to increase in coverage and intensity throughout the day. The NWS's aviation guidance advises that scattered low clouds and southerly winds will persist through the morning, with MVFR CIGs expected in the afternoon and stronger southwest winds peaking with gusts up to 30 kt in the evening.
The weather service also issued a cautionary note via an X post, advising residents to be wary of gusty winds, especially in the hills, along the coast, and through gaps and passes, recommending that loose outdoor objects be secured. Small craft advisories are in effect for several areas throughout the weekend in the marine domain. This indicates that boats could face rough conditions at sea, with the possibility of weak to moderate northwest winds prevailing until early next week after the front's passage.
In addition to rain watch out for gusty winds today and tonight. Especially in the hills, along the coast, and through the gaps and passes. Make sure to secure any loose outdoor objects that may blow about in the wind! #cawx pic.twitter.com/Ja9jKqv1QI
— NWS Bay Area 🌉 (@NWSBayArea) January 13, 2024
Looking ahead into next week, the region should experience a brief respite before the possibility of lighter rain returns around Wednesday. The National Weather Service San Francisco foresees a slight warming trend as the week progresses, with rain potentially coming back in the middle of the week. Until then, Bay Area residents should prepare for a stormy weekend with all necessary precautions against the expected wind and rainfall.
