The stormy weather is officially back in the Bay Area. Another atmospheric river is over California, specifically in the San Francisco Area, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Flood Watch, Wind Advisory, and High Surf Advisory, and Coastal Flood Advisory in the Bay Area.
Current advisories and warnings from NWS
The Bay Area has had stormy weather all week, and the continued storm wasn’t unexpected. San Francisco is currently under multiple weather advisories due to the storm. The NWS issued a Flood Watch until 10 am on Monday, so rivers and streams could flood, along with low areas. Also, be sure to look out for landslides due to flooding. A high Surf Advisory is in place until 4 am on Monday, so be sure to stay clear of rocks and jetties on beaches. A Wind Advisory is in effect until 10 pm tonight with gusts up to 50 mph or even 60 mph or greater in the Bay Area. Be sure to look out for branches that could fall due to the wind or objects being blown around. There is also a Coastal Flood Advisory starting at 5 am on Monday until 9 am on Monday.
Predictions are often updated, so be sure to check the NWS website for their 7 day forecast and their current advisories for more information.
What is an atmospheric river?
The stormy weather was expected, with the NWS predicting the atmospheric river hitting California and the west coast last week. The term ‘atmospheric river’ has been used frequently to describe the rainy weather. An atmospheric river is essentially a long stream of precipitation being carried out of the tropics. An atmospheric river doesn’t necessarily mean heavy rain for a big storm. They often are a necessary weather pattern that brings needed rain and snow to regions. However, they can carry large amounts of perception that can cause flooding.
As always, stay safe, SF!