A soggy, blustery stretch is lining up for the Bay Area this week, with forecasters calling for rain to roll in by midweek and linger through the weekend, while unusually high "king tides" threaten to push water into low-lying coastal spots at high tide. Before that, this morning is expected to start on a chilly note, with some inland pockets dipping toward freezing. With another storm possible late in the week, today is shaping up as the best opportunity to secure outdoor gear and clear storm drains.
Temperatures and timing
Daytime highs are expected to run from the mid 60s along the coast to the low 50s and low 60s around the Bay, with inland highs ranging from the high 40s up into the low 60s. Overnight lows should mostly land in the mid 40s to low 50s, with interior spots dropping into the low 40s, according to SFGATE. The North Bay is in for more fog early Tuesday, with low clouds likely lingering into the mid-to-late morning. Forecasters predict rain will return tomorrow and persist through the weekend.
NWS advisories: cold snap and coastal flood risk
The National Weather Service has issued a Coastal Flood Advisory from 5 a.m. Wednesday through 2 p.m. Sunday for shoreline zones around the Bay Area and warns that high tides during the perigean spring tide window could run about 1.5 to 1.8 feet above normal at the San Francisco tide gauge, according to the National Weather Service. That discussion notes that those astronomical tides, combined with an incoming low-pressure system and onshore winds, can produce minor flooding of low-lying roads, parks, and parking lots.
The agency has also posted a Cold Weather Advisory from 1 a.m. to 9 a.m. Tuesday, warning that interior valleys and hill areas could see temperatures near freezing and urging precautions for people who are especially vulnerable. For specific details on locations and timing, please refer to the National Weather Service.
Why "king tides" matter
King tides are perigean spring tides, which occur when the moon is at its closest point to Earth during a new or full phase, and they produce the highest high tides of the season, according to NOAA. Even without storms, these astronomical highs can trigger nuisance or "sunny-day" flooding in low-lying neighborhoods. Add a storm-driven surge on top and the odds go up for water over roads and into shoreline parks and parking lots. NOAA recommends keeping an eye on local tide gauges and coastal inundation dashboards for real-time water levels.
How to prepare
Forecasters say Tuesday is likely the best day to secure outdoor furniture and any loose items that survived recent storms before wetter and windier weather settles in, according to SFGATE. Move vehicles away from shoreline streets, clear gutters and drains, and avoid driving through standing water; if streets are barricaded, take the hint and turn around. If you do not have stable housing, check with city or county officials about warming centers and outreach services. Use any portable heaters with care to avoid fire or carbon monoxide risks.
Expect on-and-off rain from Wednesday through the weekend, a higher chance of minor coastal flooding at high tides from Wednesday to Sunday, and the potential for gusty southerly winds on Friday. Keep up with updates from the National Weather Service and local officials, and have local tide times handy if you live, commute, or park near the water. This page will be updated if conditions change.
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