Bay Area, CA – A fast-moving storm system is bringing widespread rain and thunderstorms to the Bay Area on Monday, with showers moving south from the North Bay and intensifying by early afternoon. Residents should expect hazardous driving conditions and a wet evening commute.
Storm’s Arrival and Intensification
The National Weather Service has warned that rainfall will increase in coverage and intensity throughout the day. Wind gusts of up to 35 mph are expected in the higher terrains, with winds reaching up to 45 mph in the Central Coast‘s mountainous areas. Flash flood warnings are in effect for parts of Napa County, specifically areas impacted by the Pickett Fire in late August and early September. Flood advisories have been issued for most other Bay Area counties until Monday evening.
The Central Coast is expected to see the highest rainfall coverage, along with isolated thunderstorms later in the day. Flash flooding remains a concern in areas prone to rapid runoff during heavy downpours. A quarter-inch to 1.5 inches of rain is expected in lower elevations, while higher elevations could see 1 to 3 inches of rain. The evening commute could experience brief urban flooding, lightning, small hail, erratic winds, and possibly waterspouts near the coast.
Storm’s Snowfall Impact in the Sierra
The storm is also expected to bring significant snowfall to the Sierra, with the National Weather Service issuing a winter storm warning until Wednesday at 5 p.m. The Sierra Nevada will see 1 to 2 feet of snow at elevations of 6,000 to 7,000 feet, and up to 3 feet of snow at higher elevations.
Cold Temperatures to Follow
Daytime highs on Monday will be in the low to mid-60s across the Bay Area, with overnight lows in the low 50s. Tuesday will remain unsettled, with lingering showers and chances for thunderstorms as the system moves out. Temperatures are expected to dip further, with San Jose possibly approaching a record-low maximum temperature of 63°F, compared to the historic low of 62°F set in 1948. Monterey and San Benito Counties‘ far interior regions may see near-freezing temperatures overnight, raising concerns for patchy frost and black ice.
After the cold, wet spell, a brief period of warmer and drier weather is forecast for Wednesday through Saturday. However, unsettled and rainy conditions are expected to return by Sunday.
Impacts on Wildfire Risk
While the rain is a welcome relief, Cal Fire Battalion Chief Brent Pascua cautioned that the risk of wildfires is not completely over. “It would be nice to say that we’re done with fire season, but it’s just not the case in California,” Pascua stated. He emphasized the need for preparation, as the weather can change quickly. “We have that whiplash weather where it can rain this part of the week, and by the weekend, we could be sunny, hot, and dry again.”
Pascua recommends that residents take this time to review emergency plans, check go bags, and ensure supplies are ready, as winds and hot temperatures could quickly return, potentially leading to new fire risks.
How are you preparing for the storm? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
