The National Weather Service (NWS) San Francisco has extended a Flood Watch for the North Bay through 10 PM Friday, and for the rest of the Bay Area and Central Coast from 10 AM Tuesday through the same time. An atmospheric river is bringing moderate to heavy rain, with the valleys expecting 2-5 inches and coastal mountains up to 6-8 inches. The NWS warns of rapid rises in creeks and streams during and after the heavy rainfall, and standing water in urban areas and on low-lying roadways, advising caution with the clear directive: "Turn around, don't drown!"
Accompanying the deluge, the region faces a gamut of weather threats. A High Wind Warning and Wind Advisory have been extended through 10 AM Christmas Day, with gusts up to 65 mph expected in parts of the Bay Area. Overnight, the winds have already proven their force, with reports of 92 mph gusts in northwestern San Mateo County. Furthermore, beachgoers are cautioned to avoid the coastline due to dangerous conditions including blowing sand, and mariners are advised of storm-force winds forecast across coastal waters through Friday.
Adding to the mix, the potential for severe thunderstorms has been flagged by the NWS. "Slight chances for severe thunderstorms begin this evening and continue through Thursday evening," according to the Area Forecast Discussion from NWS San Francisco. Severe threats could include damaging wind gusts and even possible tornadoes. In the wake of these systems, a cold front is anticipated this weekend after the storm breaks, providing a sharp contrast to the current conditions.
Travel disruptions and road conditions continue to be a significant concern. "We are continuing to receive reports of roadway flooding across the Bay Area," NWS San Francisco stated. The intense winds have been knocking down trees, branches, and power lines, further complicating travel. As the Bay Area faces this intense weather snapshot, residents are urged to stay informed and exercise extreme caution if travel is unavoidable.
Looking ahead, the turbulent weather is expected to give way to clearer skies. The NWS anticipates calm, clear, and cool conditions starting Sunday, with the 500 mb ridge settling in through Tuesday. However, the tranquility might be short-lived as new troughing patterns forecast possibly around January 1st or 2nd coincide with the upcoming King Tides, though there's no strong signal for major impacts at this time.
Marine conditions will remain hazardous through Friday, with the NWS advising vessels unable to manage the conditions to return to port or find shelter. For beachgoers, a Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect until the early hours of Friday, with concerns over high wind waves, poor visibility, and coastal erosion. Residents and visitors are encouraged to exercise caution and stay up-to-date with the latest weather developments through the National Weather Service's advisories.
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