The Bay Area is bracing for a gusty wind advisory, with the National Weather Service of San Francisco forecasting "gusty offshore winds" from tonight into Friday morning. The wind speeds in the higher elevations could range between 45 to 60 mph, raising concerns for potential power outages and the toppling of trees and branches.

An issued report from the NWS explains that an omega blocking pattern and an upper level ridge will create surface high pressure, leading to robust offshore winds, particularly in the North and East Bay Mountains, Marin Coastal range, and the Santa Cruz Mountains. A Wind Advisory remains in place, and the "SFO-WMC gradient peaking around minus 11-13 mb towards Thursday morning," is indicative of a significant Diablo wind event.

The NWS Bay Area warns of the immediate threats posed by the blustery conditions, urging residents to stay vigilant from today into the end of the week. The wind advisory goes beyond the mountains, as valleys may also feel the brunt of breezes and gusts into Thursday.

As the NWS cautions, "The combination of recent rainfall/wet soils, and strong gusty winds may result in downed trees and some power outages, especially at higher elevations." Residents in the advised regions should secure any loose items outdoors and stay aware of the possibility of falling trees or branches. The wind conditions notwithstanding, the Bay Area can anticipate pleasant weather with sunny skies and temperatures in the mid to high 60s through the weekend.

On the maritime front, boaters are advised of rough conditions with the NWS highlighting "gale force gusts by the afternoon." A Small Craft Advisory and Gale Warning have been issued for various zones, as northwesterly winds are expected to intensify through Wednesday and then shift offshore, gradually decreasing over the subsequent days.