San Francisco, CA – Thunderstorms are expected across the Bay Area on Wednesday, bringing the potential for lightning, gusty winds, and fire starts, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in San Francisco. Forecasters say the storm system will arrive pre-dawn Wednesday, peak through the morning and afternoon, and gradually taper off by evening.
According to the NWS, most of the Bay Area is under a minor thunderstorm risk, with the East Bay and southern North Bay at the highest risk for dry lightning strikes. Winds may gust above 35 mph near storms, increasing hazards for commuters and raising concerns about wildfire ignitions in remote regions.
The strongest storm activity is expected from Wednesday morning into the afternoon, with lightning posing the biggest concern for fire-prone areas. “Lightning strikes may result in new ignitions, especially across the East Bay and southern North Bay,” the forecast office noted. Rain chances will diminish later Wednesday night, with drier weather anticipated Thursday morning.
Residents are urged to stay alert for rapidly changing weather conditions, secure outdoor items vulnerable to gusty winds, and report any signs of wildfire activity immediately.
