EUREKA, Calif. – The calm fog rolling across Humboldt Bay this morning will soon give way to a powerful Pacific system poised to drench Northern California midweek. After a quiet and mild Veterans Day, conditions will turn sharply wetter and windier by Wednesday — marking one of the strongest fall systems to reach the coast so far this November.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, rain will begin Wednesday afternoon and intensify through the evening. Winds from the south will strengthen, gusting between 35 and 40 mph along the immediate coast and higher ridges. By Wednesday night, the system will peak, producing 1 to 2 inches of rainfall across much of Humboldt and Del Norte counties, with localized heavier totals possible in mountain terrain.
The heaviest rain is expected between 6 p.m. Wednesday and mid-morning Thursday, potentially leading to ponding on Highway 101 and reduced visibility along exposed stretches near Fortuna, Arcata, and Crescent City. Power flickers and small debris on roads are possible due to gusty winds. Drivers are urged to secure outdoor items, plan extra travel time, and watch for standing water in dips and intersections.
Rain will taper to scattered showers Thursday night, but another weak front may bring additional light rain Friday before the weekend turns cooler and drier.
After several foggy, quiet mornings, the incoming storm will be a clear reminder of late fall’s wet transition — a needed soaking for the North Coast but one that could challenge midweek travel and outdoor plans.
Five-Day Forecast for Eureka, CA:
Tue: 61/52 – Patchy fog early; mostly cloudy.
Wed: 65/50 – Rain developing; breezy afternoon.
Thu: 56/48 – Showers likely; gusty south winds.
Fri: 55/48 – Chance rain; cloudy and cool.
Sat: 58/44 – Mostly cloudy; drying trend begins.
