San Francisco Bay Area, Calif. – The Bay Area is ringing in 2026 with a turbulent weather pattern, as multiple storm systems move through Northern California, prompting wind advisories and a coastal flood advisory across large parts of the region on New Year’s Day.
According to the National Weather Service, rain that began late on New Year’s Eve is continuing through Thursday morning as a cold front pushes across the Bay Area and Central Coast. Forecasters say a second round of showers is expected later Thursday afternoon.
Rainfall Pattern Through the Weekend
Meteorologists report that conditions may briefly improve on Friday, with a partial break in rainfall across much of the Bay Area. However, that pause will be short-lived.
A stronger cold front is expected to arrive Friday night, bringing heavy rain, thunderstorms, and powerful winds that could persist into Saturday. This system is forecast to be more intense than earlier showers, raising concerns about hazardous travel and localized impacts.
Wind Advisory Issued for Multiple Regions
The Weather Service has issued a wind advisory covering wide portions of Northern and Central California. The advisory is scheduled to remain in effect from 1 p.m. Friday through 1 p.m. Saturday.
Areas under the advisory include:
- North Bay mountains
- San Francisco
- East Bay hills
- Coastal regions
- Monterey County
- San Benito County
Forecasters expect wind gusts to reach 40 to 50 mph along the coast and in elevated terrain, with isolated locations potentially seeing even stronger gusts. These winds could down tree limbs, cause power outages, and make driving hazardous, especially on bridges and exposed roadways.
King Tides Increase Flooding Risk
In addition to the storm systems, the Bay Area is experiencing king tides, which are contributing to an elevated risk of coastal flooding. Officials describe the tides as “exceptionally high,” particularly during the Saturday morning tide cycle.
The unusually high water levels are being driven by several astronomical factors occurring simultaneously:
- A full moon on Saturday
- The moon’s closest approach to Earth on New Year’s Day
- Perihelion, when Earth is closest to the Sun in its orbit
These conditions combine to produce some of the highest tides of the year, increasing the likelihood of seawater pushing into vulnerable coastal and bayfront areas.
Coastal Flood Advisory Remains in Effect
A coastal flood advisory is currently in place for coastal areas and the San Francisco Bay shoreline. The advisory began Wednesday morning and is expected to remain active through 2 p.m. Sunday.
Weather officials warn that up to 2.5 feet of inundation above ground level is possible in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. This could affect:
- Waterfront roads and parking areas
- Trails and marinas
- Low-elevation neighborhoods near the bay or ocean
Residents and visitors are advised to avoid flooded areas and never attempt to drive through standing water.
More Rain Expected Sunday and Beyond
Another weather system bringing heavier rain is forecast to move through the region on Sunday, extending the unsettled pattern. Forecasters say the Bay Area is likely to experience intermittent rain and unstable conditions through at least Thursday or Friday of next week.
With saturated ground and continued storms, officials will continue monitoring for potential flooding and wind-related hazards.
What Residents Should Know
Officials urge Bay Area residents to stay informed by checking local forecasts, securing outdoor items ahead of strong winds, and planning travel carefully during periods of heavy rain. Coastal communities should remain alert during high tide cycles, especially over the weekend.
As 2026 begins, forecasters emphasize that conditions may change quickly as each system moves through the region.
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