The National Weather Service in San Francisco forecasts moderate to significant rainfall starting late Monday night, particularly in the North Bay and Santa Cruz Mountains. According to their recent updates, there's up to a 55% chance of receiving more than one inch of rain over the next 72 hours, ending next Thursday morning. But rainfall isn't the only hazard on the horizon. The region is bracing for potentially hazardous winds on Wednesday morning, which could lead to travel disruptions. Therefore, it's wise to keep an eye on the sky and your local forecast if you plan to be on the road.
While we await the downpour, beachgoers should steer clear of the Pacific Coast beaches this weekend. The NWS San Francisco has issued a Beach Hazards Statement, effective through early Tuesday, warning of sneaker waves and rip currents that could pose a danger to anyone near the ocean. And it's not just the waters that are causing concern, as a Dense Fog Advisory affects the North Bay Valleys and the Southern Monterey Bay Coast until late morning, with visibility dropping to less than half a mile in some areas, making those early commutes quite dicey.
When it comes to aviation, things are a bit of a hodgepodge. The Area Forecast Discussion from the National Weather Service notes a mix of conditions at the moment, with low stratus clouds hugging the Pacific Coast and patchy, dense fog reported in the North Bay Interior Valleys and Monterey Bay. VFR is expected to return this afternoon, though. Still, it might be back to foggy conditions by tonight, so if you're flying in or out of the area, keep updated with your carrier for any potential delays.
On the maritime side, sailors and fishermen must navigate carefully over the weekend. Strong northerly breezes and very rough seas are predicted for the outer waters, with small craft advisories in effect for several zones, including from Point Arena to Point Reyes and Pigeon Point to Point Piedras Blancas. Come Monday, the winds should mellow down, but don't let your guard down. Conditions are forecast to deteriorate again by Tuesday night with the arrival of the storm system bringing not only rain but more powerful gusts and very rough seas, especially in the outer waters.
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