bay area storm

Rain Wednesday Will Add to Historic Wet Period in Bay Area

NBC Universal, Inc. Meteorologist Kari Hall has the timeline of the incoming rain and cold overnight temps in the Microclimate Forecast.

The final storm in a series that began hitting the Bay Area last month is forecast to arrive Wednesday, along with a cold front and king tides that have a coastal flood advisory in effect.

The rain Wednesday will be lighter than previous storms, according to Colby Goatley, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.

"We're not expecting nearly the amount of rainfall we got with these previous systems," Goatley said.

Valley Water in the South Bay on Wednesday was among multiple Bay Area entities set to discuss how to keep unhoused residents from living in creek beds, where they're in danger during heavy rains. Kris Sanchez reports.

There is between a tenth of an inch and half an inch of rain forecast for the region. Conditions will clear by Thursday morning, according to the current forecast.

The cold front could put vulnerable populations at risk as overnight temperatures will be at or near freezing for some inland and North Bay areas throughout the week. Colby said to make sure to check on people who don't have shelter and bring outdoor plants inside if possible.

The coastal flood advisory will remain in effect through the week due to the king tides coinciding with the lingering rain.

"Any coastal areas need to be on guard for the elevated waters," Goatley said.

All this rain is great for our drought, at least in the short-term. But is it enough to actually pull us out of the drought long-term? It’s a little complicated. NBC Bay Area’s Jessica Aguirre spoke to Felicia Marcus, a fellow at Stanford’s Water of the West program, for some insight.

He said flooding and unstable land was expected after weather events like the recent storms.

"When the soil gets that saturated, then continuous rains thereafter, you can't help but expect landslides, mudslides and widespread flooding," Goatley said.

He said the weather service had been working hard to keep people informed during the ongoing storms.

"We've coordinated closely with all of our partners and emergency managers trying to ensure everyone's safety during this time," Goatley said.

Downtown San Francisco received 18.09 inches of rain between Dec. 26 and Monday, making it the wettest 22-day period in the city since 1862, according to the National Weather Service.

Exit mobile version