San Francisco, CA – An atmospheric river is on track to impact the Bay Area and Central Coast beginning Wednesday evening, bringing widespread rain, strong winds, and the potential for isolated thunderstorms, according to the National Weather Service in San Francisco.
Forecasters say Tuesday will be the final dry day before conditions turn wet and breezy midweek. Rain is expected to begin late Wednesday, continuing through Thursday, with lingering showers Friday. Most urban areas, including San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland, can expect around one inch of rain, while higher elevations across the North Bay and Santa Cruz Mountains may receive 2 to 3 inches.
The NWS says wind gusts could make travel difficult and increase the risk of downed branches or localized power outages. Drivers should prepare for wet roadways, ponding, and reduced visibility during the evening commute Wednesday and early Thursday.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve by late Friday as the system moves east.
Residents are urged to complete outdoor preparations by Tuesday and monitor local forecasts for updates at weather.gov/bayarea.
