San Francisco woke up today soaked as a Pacific low rolled through, and the city is not done yet. Showers are expected to linger with an elevated chance of thunderstorms into the afternoon and evening. Highs should land near 62°F before slipping into the low 50s overnight. Most neighborhoods are looking at about a quarter to a half inch of rain, with heftier totals likely on coastal slopes and in hilltop areas.
Timing And Thunderstorm Risk
The main band of rain moved in before dawn and will break up into scattered showers and thunderstorms that ramp up during the afternoon and into the evening commute. Lightning, brief heavy downpours and small hail are the primary concerns, with the strongest cells also capable of kicking up gusty, erratic winds and cutting visibility. That guidance comes from NWS San Francisco.
Commute And Airport Impacts
Drivers can expect greasy roads, standing water in low spots and slower traffic as visibility dips in heavier showers. Transit is likely to feel the drag too. At SFO and nearby airports, ceilings may briefly drop into MVFR territory when the more intense showers roll through, with gusty, shifty winds and moderate to heavy rain that could lead to delays, so plan extra time for flights and ground connections.
Cyclists and anyone crossing the bridges should be ready for a chillier ride as gusts team up with rain. Build in some buffer time for the trip or consider another way across the Bay if you are not in the mood for a surprise power rinse.
Boaters And Outdoor Plans
Small craft advisories are posted for parts of Monterey Bay and nearby coastal waters, which means nonessential outings should wait and smaller boats should tuck into sheltered harbors. The National Weather Service has advisories up for Monterey Bay and the stretch from Point Pinos to Piedras Blancas, with coverage windows running through the afternoon and evening. Boaters are urged to check the latest coastal details from NWS San Francisco before heading out.
Looking Ahead
Showers are expected to ease by Wednesday, with a turn toward drier, milder weather later in the week as highs rebound into the mid to upper 60s.
For now, keep the umbrella handy, throw on a waterproof layer and take it easy on the roads when the rain comes down hard. If you spot lightning nearby or notice water rising quickly, head to higher ground and steer clear of flooded streets.
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