The National Weather Service in San Francisco has issued a Flood Watch for the North Bay that will remain in effect from Saturday afternoon through Monday afternoon. Residents are bracing for the forecast, which warns of moderate to heavy rain brought on by an atmospheric river. Expected rainfall amounts range from 2-3 inches in valleys to as much as 6 inches in the coastal mountains. Such downpours are likely to cause creeks and streams to rise rapidly, creating potential flood hazards for low-lying and flood-prone areas, urban locations, and obstructed roadways. The NWS San Francisco advises individuals in the affected regions to be prepared for flood-related emergencies and stay informed about evolving conditions.
Adding to the flood concerns, moderate to heavy rainfall is projected to continuously impact the San Francisco Bay Area and the Central Coast throughout the coming week. This sustained wet pattern may exacerbate already saturated soils and stressed waterways. Notably, high winds are also expected to return from Tuesday through Thursday, which could increase the risk of tree damage and power outages. Despite the uncertainties in forecast models between the ECMWF and GFS regarding the exact track and intensity of the impending systems, it is clear that the region should be prepared to face significant weather impacts during this period. "The combination of wind and moist soils will increase the risk for downed trees and thus downed power lines," according to the the National Weather Service.
Mariners are equally being cautioned as the advancing storms pose serious threats on the water. From Saturday through Thursday, the marine forecast indicates light to moderate rain, which is expected to intensify on Sunday in northern waters. Gale-force winds, potentially hurricane-force gusts, and extremely turbulent seas are predicted to challenge those at sea, particularly with wave heights that could surpass 20 feet. The NWS's advisory extends a warning to all mariners to be vigilant and consider delaying any maritime activity.
Flood Watches and heavy rainfall also mean that the risk for urban flooding is elevated, so the NWS suggests that residents and travelers account for weather conditions in their holiday plans. "When all is said and done, locations can generally expect a December's worth of rain or a quarter of their annual averages," as mentioned in the Area Forecast Discussion. For those still navigating the roads, concerns over visibility and treacherous driving conditions are great, with some areas experiencing gusty winds of up to 40 mph. All are urged to heed the warnings and remain clear of the oceanfront, as hazardous beach conditions are expected to return later in the week.
_(05).jpg){kind=link}