Bay Area residents face a turbulent weather pattern as the National Weather Service (NWS) in San Francisco reports scattered showers and possible thunderstorms, raising concerns of localized flooding across the region. In a statement released early this morning, the NWS detailed that the coverage of rain would intensify this afternoon and evening, with heavy downpours potentially leading to urban and small stream flooding; thunderstorms, accompanied by lightning and hail, are also on the table. The announcement emphasized the 10% probability of areas witnessing more than an inch of rainfall within a three-hour window, a scenario that strictly augurs vigilance against flash flooding.
Today's high is expected to hover near 59 degrees, with a south southeast wind blowing at 8 to 10 mph and an 80% chance of precipitation, as per the NWS's 7-day forecast. Meanwhile, the NWS Bay Area issued a Flood Advisory effective until 4 PM PST this afternoon, highlighting the immediate risks that the current atmospheric setup poses; showers and thunderstorms continue into tonight with a temperature forecast of around 50 degrees, though drier conditions return Wednesday with only a 20 percent chance of rain before 11 AM.
Flood Advisory Now in Effect until 4 PM PST This Afternoon. #CAwx pic.twitter.com/fFLfzr9jK1
— NWS Bay Area 🌉 (@NWSBayArea) February 20, 2024
As the region braces for the unstable weather, the upcoming weekend dredges up a familiar threat with rain expected to make a return; the long-term forecast by the NWS suggests that although this weekend's wet conditions may be "beneficial," concerns linger for Friday through to Sunday as the chance of rain hovers, potentially muddying any reprieve mid-week's drier conditions offered. However, the latest advisory reassures that this subsequent rainfall is not forecasted to incite any "widespread flooding concerns." Temperatures throughout the week will stay slightly below average for daytime highs and marginally above for overnight lows.
The inclement weather also affects marine conditions. Mariners are warned of ongoing scattered showers and thunderstorms, including isolated strong thunderstorms, waterspouts, and small hail, especially in the afternoon to evening today, based on a marine report by the NWS. Wave heights are on a downward trajectory but will fluctuate with the passing weather system through the end of the workweek, complicating on-sea activities.
The NWS has also heightened awareness for beachgoers, as a High Surf Advisory was in effect early Tuesday, cautioning against large, dangerous waves up to 22 feet at west-facing beaches, which could sweep people out to sea. The advisory, issued at 944 PM PST Monday, strongly advises individuals to exercise caution near the ocean.
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