The Bay Area is bracing for a succession of weather fronts that promise to deliver a one-two punch of rain and winds over the coming days, with meteorologists already eyeing further storm activity next week. The National Weather Service's San Francisco office provided an early morning forecast on Tuesday, detailing what residents can expect in the short and long term.
Amidst a "relatively benign" weather spell, the Bay Area underwent cooler temperatures and dry conditions on Tuesday, thanks to a persistent high pressure in the Eastern Pacific. However, a shift is imminent. The NWS cautioned about a weak cold front set to glide through on Wednesday, expected to cause light rainfall that could offer some benefits despite no drastic temperature changes, according to the forecast discussion.
Rainfall is anticipated to subside by Thursday, paving the way for a "pleasant day" before the weekend ushers in heavier precipitation. Residents should prepare for a pair of stronger systems that will escalate rainfall and possibly induce gusty winds as they approach the California coast. The weather agency further predicts a "gale force low pressure system," moving in from the Eastern Pacific. This system could instigate unstable atmospheric conditions, increasing the chances of thunderstorms early into next week.
While there are concerns for potential impacts due to saturated soils, the forecasted conditions are not expected to mirror the severity of storms from earlier this month, which recorded wind gusts surpassing 90 mph in high terrains. The upcoming weather system is estimated to peak around 40 mph on Sunday, with the understanding that this estimation is subject to change. The NWS Bay Area's X post update also highlighted a forecast that sees more rain and wind targeting the Bay Area and Central Coast around February 20 and 21, advising locals to "stay prepared."
Not only do we have storms coming through this weekend, but @NWSCPC is highlighting 2/20&21 for more rain and wind to the #BayArea and #CentralCoast. Stay prepared.#cawx pic.twitter.com/TWvZk5YCPW
— NWS Bay Area 🌉 (@NWSBayArea) February 12, 2024
As for marine conditions, the current calm will give way to breezier winds and rain midweek based on the National Weather Service's advisory. Sailors and those with interests on the water are advised to be cognizant of the upcoming weather systems, which promise to ruffle the Pacific with elevated seas, and stronger, winds as the weekend unfolds into the following week.
