The San Francisco Bay Area and the North Bay have been advised to remain on high alert for potential flooding and high winds with a series of intense weather systems approaching. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) San Francisco, a Flood Watch has been extended through 10 PM Friday in the North Bay, and from 10 AM Tuesday through the same time for the rest of the Bay Area and Central Coast. In a statement issued by the same source, they've warned of "moderate to heavy rain associated with an atmospheric river," which could bring 2 to 5 inches of rainfall in valleys and up to 6-8 inches in coastal mountains. Driving through water is highly discouraged, with the familiar mantra "Turn around, don't drown!" being reemphasized.
Adding to the worries, strong winds are also forecast. The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Watch warning that Tuesday evening through Wednesday morning may bring southerly winds gusting up to 60 miles per hour, which have the potential to down trees and power lines. In a period when the trees, their roots grappling with moist soils, could succumb to the combined weight of water and wind, falling and creating the risk of property damage, while posing additional dangers to already difficult travel conditions.
The situation should not be taken lightly, as apart from the flood and wind threats, urban and small stream flooding is also possible, especially from late Tuesday into Friday across the entire Bay Area, according to a National Weather Service update. Those with travel plans over the holiday period are advised to leave extra time and consider alternative routes where possible.
On the marine front, the hazards are just as significant, with a Gale Warning in effect starting Tuesday morning. Mariners can expect storm-force and, at times, possibly hurricane-force winds along coastal jets. According to the same source, the seas will grow increasingly dangerous through the week, with "wave heights in excess of 20 feet" potential. While the conditions remain inclement throughout the week, they are forecast to ease slightly after Friday, with light rain persisting into the weekend.
Current forecasts from the NWS indicate that San Francisco can expect rain every day leading up to Christmas, with the chance of thunderstorms on Thursday night, and the rain may ease just a bit before the weekend.
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