San Francisco is waking up to a chilly, soggy today, with temperatures in the low 50s and steady rain expected to hang around through the day. Highs should top out in the low 60s before cooling again into the evening. Southerly winds will gust across exposed hills and waterfronts, and a Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect through Tuesday for minor bayshore flooding. In short, this is an umbrella, rain jacket and leave-early-for-everything kind of day, as some low-lying streets and parks could see temporary ponding around high tides.
What To Expect Today
Rain is set to become widespread today, with about a 90% chance during the daytime and new rainfall totals in San Francisco of roughly a half to three-quarters of an inch, with locally higher amounts in the coastal ranges. The high will hover near 61°F before temperatures slip back into the upper 50s by late afternoon. Gusty south-southeast winds, mostly 9–15 mph with stronger gusts, will ride in with the showers, especially along the waterfront, according to the National Weather Service.
Afternoon Winds And The Commute
South-southeast winds will crank up through the afternoon, with city gusts commonly reaching up to 25 mph and coastal and hilltop gusts potentially much higher. Tree limbs and unsecured patio furniture could be at risk of tumbling around, and drivers can expect slower traffic on bridge approaches and other exposed stretches, so plan on building in some extra time for those afternoon routes. Boat owners and ferry riders should keep an eye on small-craft and gale announcements and think about delaying any nonessential trips on open water.
Coastal Flooding Risk
The Coastal Flood Advisory runs roughly from 7 a.m. today through 3 p.m. Tuesday and flags the potential for minor inundation of low-lying lots, parks and roads along the Bay, with water levels up to about 1.0 foot above normal at the San Francisco tidal gauge and up to 1.5 feet in parts of Monterey Bay. Because high tide timing varies along the shoreline, it is smart to avoid driving through standing water and to never try to maneuver around barricades. If you normally park near the Embarcadero or other bayshore streets, move vehicles to higher ground ahead of the morning high tides where you can.
Mountains And The Week Ahead
Colder air is expected to arrive late Tuesday into Wednesday, likely dropping snow levels and triggering heavier mountain snowfall that could lead to chain requirements and travel delays. Drivers heading toward the Sierra for Presidents’ Day travel should plan for slower conditions and possible chain controls. For the latest on road conditions, check the state transportation department at Caltrans before you go.
Quick Safety Tips
Slow down on wet roads and never drive through standing water, and move cars out of low-lying lots before morning high tides. Secure loose outdoor furniture and tie down tarps, and report downed wires to 311 while keeping a safe distance. If you need to travel to higher elevations later in the week, carry chains and check road conditions in advance.
