URGENT UPDATE: A new storm is rapidly approaching the Bay Area, bringing with it the potential for heavy rain and high winds. After an atmospheric river storm drenched the region with over 5 inches of rain in some areas on Thursday, residents are bracing for another round of inclement weather starting Sunday evening.
Friday morning brought a brief respite as the storm subsided, leaving many to enjoy a moment of calm. However, the National Weather Service warns that this is merely the calm before the storm. “It’s kind of looking mostly dry for Friday,” said Dalton Behringer from the National Weather Service. “A lot of people may see some sun, but showers are still a possibility, mainly along the Central Coast.”
Despite the potential for sunshine, the Bay Area will remain damp as the remnants of the previous storm linger. The Santa Cruz Mountains experienced the heaviest rainfall, with 5.33 inches recorded in Ben Lomond. Areas in Sonoma County north of Santa Rosa also saw over 4.5 inches of rain, significantly impacting local communities.
In more central locations, 1.5 inches of rain fell at both San Francisco International Airport and downtown Oakland. Meanwhile, cities like Livermore and San Jose received less than an inch due to rain shadow effects typical of atmospheric river storms.
As we head into the weekend, the forecast indicates a shift. Showers are expected to intensify by Saturday, with more widespread rain anticipated. Behringer noted that while this rain won’t be as heavy, the southern parts of the region will experience the most significant impact.
Looking ahead, another weather system is likely to bring a band of heavy rain back to the Bay Area starting Sunday night. “This rain will be a quick-hitting one,” Behringer explained, suggesting that a break from rain will occur on Monday and Tuesday before yet another storm system is forecasted for Wednesday and Thursday.
Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared as the wet weather pattern continues. “We’re in that wet weather pattern,” Behringer stated, adding that the duration of this active weather remains uncertain. Authorities advise caution on the roads and preparedness for potential flooding as these storms develop.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation evolves. The Bay Area’s weather is changing rapidly, and it’s crucial to remain vigilant and ready for what lies ahead.
