Bay Area residents should brace for a wet and potentially wild weekend as the National Weather Service in San Francisco forecasts a cold front passing through the region, bringing with it rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds. According to the NWS Forecast Office, rain will start hitting the area Friday and intensify through early Saturday, with showers expected to continue into Sunday.

Friday could see thunderstorms from the afternoon into Sunday morning, with possible lightning strikes, gusty winds, localized flooding, and small hail, this is a potentially dangerous combination that could lead to numerous weather-related concerns for residents and visitors alike. The NWSBayArea X account has also chimed in, stressing that while the chance for thunderstorms this weekend is "slight", it is on the rise; urging residents to ensure they have a means to receive weather warnings.

In addition to rain and wind, there is a slight (but increasing) chance for thunderstorms this weekend. Make sure you have a way of receiving weather warnings should they be issued. pic.twitter.com/HeoypW4TxO

— NWS Bay Area 🌉 (@NWSBayArea) March 21, 2024

Thursday remains the final day to enjoy relatively balmy conditions before the front disrupts the region. "Enjoy this final day of warm and calm conditions before the pattern changes on Friday," the National Weather Service advised, underscoring the stark change to a cooler and wetter weather pattern that awaits.

The cold front, which marks a significant shift from the week's upper 60s to low 70s temperatures, is predicted to drop numbers down to the mid 50s to low 60s over the weekend with rain totals likely ranging from 0.5 to 1.0 inches in most of the Bay Area, offering some relief. According to their "Area Forecast Discussion" provided by a National Weather Service report, the upcoming weather pattern is characterized as "beneficial" rain for the region, as the natural ebb and flow of the environment's needs are met by these nourishing downpours.

In maritime matters, sailors and fishermen should be vigilant: a Small Craft Advisory is in effect from early Friday to early Saturday for coastal areas due to expected gusty west to southerly winds and the potential for thunderstorms. Mariners are advised to stay informed and prepare for changing sea conditions associated with the incoming system.