California — Rain taps steadily on windows this morning as winter arrives with purpose across the San Francisco Bay Area. Headlights smear across wet pavement, puddles deepen at curbs, and gusty winds tug at umbrellas before sunrise.
Temperatures sit in the upper 50s to low 60s early, but rain is already widespread. Gusty south winds strengthen through the day, especially near the coast and elevated roadways. Travel slows quickly on slick stretches of I-80, US-101, and surface streets as visibility drops during heavier bursts.
Meteorologists are tracking a strong Pacific moisture plume aimed squarely at Northern California. Rain intensifies through the day and continues tonight, with locally heavy totals possible. Poor drainage areas may flood, and recent burn scars remain vulnerable to runoff and debris flows. Drivers should avoid standing water and allow extra braking distance.
Conditions stay unsettled Monday and Tuesday. Periods of steady rain persist, sometimes easing, then redeveloping. Patchy fog forms between rain bands, further reducing visibility during early travel hours. While snow is not expected at lower elevations, colder air aloft signals an active winter pattern settling in.
By Tuesday afternoon, rain continues but begins to show signs of tapering later in the day. Even so, saturated ground increases the risk for minor flooding and roadway ponding. Transit delays remain possible as crews manage water-covered tracks and roads.
Midweek keeps the umbrella handy. Rain chances linger Wednesday into Wednesday night, setting the stage for damp Christmas travel. While no major windstorm appears imminent, cumulative rainfall raises concern for slow-moving hazards rather than sudden impacts.
Plan routes carefully, slow down on wet roads, and monitor local advisories. Winter has arrived loudly in Northern California. Are you seeing flooding or hazardous travel where you are?
Five-Day Outlook for San Francisco, CA
- Today: Rain and breezy. High near 61.
- Monday: Rain, patchy fog. High near 58.
- Tuesday: Periods of rain. High near 58.
- Wednesday: Rain continues. High near 57.
- Christmas Day: Rain likely. High near 55.
