UPDATE: A significant atmospheric river storm is set to hit the Bay Area beginning at 10 p.m. Wednesday, with the National Weather Service (NWS) confirming high winds and heavy rain will affect the region for the next 24 hours. This is the second atmospheric river storm to strike the area in November, with severe conditions expected.
The storm center, developing northwest of San Francisco, will bring a strong cold front that combines with the lingering high pressure, creating intense winds and downpours. NWS meteorologist Rick Canepa stated, “It’s deepening quickly,” highlighting the storm’s rapid development.
Areas including Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo, and Santa Cruz counties could experience sustained winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts reaching up to 50 mph. In the higher elevations of Sonoma and Napa counties, gusts may escalate to a staggering 60 mph.
The NWS has issued a high-wind warning for the North Bay and a wind advisory for the rest of the region, effective from 10 p.m. Wednesday until 10 a.m. Thursday. Rainfall is expected to be heavy, with a 50% chance of at least an inch across most of the Bay Area. However, some regions in the Santa Clara Valley, including San Jose, could see much less due to the “rain shadow” effect, while areas above Santa Rosa may receive over 2 inches of rain.
Canepa warned that the storm’s slower movement could extend its impact into Thursday, with lingering showers expected throughout the day. The Sierra Nevada will also feel the storm’s effects, with a winter storm advisory in place for elevations above 8,000 feet, starting at 1 a.m. Thursday and lasting until 7 a.m. Friday. Up to 4 inches of snow is anticipated in these areas, accompanied by travel disruptions in the Sierra passes.
Residents are urged to prepare for possible power outages and flooding as the storm approaches. With conditions rapidly changing, officials recommend staying updated on local weather reports and taking necessary precautions to ensure safety.
As the situation develops, the Bay Area braces for what could be one of the most impactful storms of the season. Stay tuned for further updates as we monitor this urgent weather event.
