Rain may fall in the San Francisco Bay Area through Monday, except for Thursday afternoon and evening, according to the National Weather Service.
Rain started falling in moderate amounts Wednesday evening and was expected to be widespread. It continued overnight and may linger into Thursday morning.
Weather officials said Thursday afternoon and evening will be dry and then rain will fall Friday as early as sunrise. The rate of rain and its coverage area will increase along with southerly winds Friday. Winds may reach 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.
The strongest rain is forecast for Friday evening and Friday night, according to weather officials.
Rain is expected Saturday, Sunday and possibly Monday.
Weather officials said significant flooding is not expected. Gusty winds on Friday may down trees and power lines, possibly causing power outages.
Weather officials said the heaviest rain during the storm system will cause mud and rock slides.
