California – Morning darkness lifts slowly along the Bay, where water laps closer to sidewalks than usual. Low clouds drift over the shoreline, and damp air hints at what’s ahead. Coastal flooding concerns are growing as tides rise and rain moves in during the final days of 2025.
According to the National Weather Service in San Francisco, a Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect from early Wednesday morning through Sunday afternoon. Up to 1.8 feet of inundation above ground level is possible in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways, especially during peak high tides.
Around the San Francisco Bay and San Pablo Bay shoreline, vulnerable spots include waterfront roads, parking lots, parks, and marina areas. Monterey Bay and the Big Sur coast may also see impacts. While widespread closures are not expected, isolated road flooding is likely during the highest tides.
Rain increases Wednesday and continues into New Year’s Day 2026, compounding flooding concerns. Wet pavement and pooled water may slow travel along U.S. 101, Highway 1, and surface streets near the coast. Patchy fog at times could further reduce visibility, especially overnight and during early mornings.
High tides will peak several times through the week, including early New Year’s Day and again late Friday and Sunday. These tides are running well above normal, driven by astronomical factors rather than storms alone. Even light rain may worsen impacts in flood-prone locations.
Residents and visitors should allow extra travel time near the waterfront. Avoid driving through standing water and respect barricades. Secure property in flood-prone areas and monitor tide cycles closely if celebrating near the coast.
Unsettled weather lingers into the first weekend of 2026, with rain chances continuing and coastal impacts possible. More advisories could follow if conditions worsen. Planning New Year’s plans near the water? Let us know what you’re seeing along the shoreline.
Five-Day Outlook for San Francisco, California
Today: Partly sunny, high near 55
Wednesday: Rain likely, high near 54
New Year’s Day 2026 (Thursday): Rain, high near 59
Friday: Rain, high near 60
Saturday: Rain likely, high near 56
