Intense weather is approaching the Bay Area, as a fast-moving rainstorm is set to bring significant rainfall and potential thunderstorms. Meteorologists are closely monitoring this system, which is linked to an unusual jet stream pattern.
Fast-Moving Rainstorm Details
Dylan Flynn, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service (NWS) Bay Area office, reported that a deep low-pressure system is moving southward from the Pacific Northwest. This system is expected to hit the North Bay by Monday morning.
According to Flynn, the rain’s arrival in major cities will be rapid. “It will only be an hour before it gets to San Francisco, and another hour before it reaches San Jose,” he stated.
Forecast and Expected Rainfall
Rainfall is predicted to continue throughout the day, with the heaviest downpours occurring in the afternoon. The storm is expected to clear by midnight, but scattered showers may linger into Tuesday.
- North Bay: Approximately half an inch of rain.
- Rest of Bay Area: Close to one inch of rain expected.
- Santa Lucia Mountains: Potentially up to three inches of rain.
- San Francisco: Forecasted 0.81 inches, while typical October rainfall is 0.94 inches.
- San Jose: Expected 0.93 inches, compared to the usual 0.53 inches.
Thunderstorm Chances and Hazards
On Monday, there is a 20% to 30% chance of thunderstorms across the Bay Area. This likelihood will drop to 10% to 20% in the South Bay and Central Coast by Tuesday. While severe weather criteria such as damaging winds and tornadoes are not anticipated, small hail is possible, posing risks for drivers and road conditions.
Wind gusts of 30 to 40 mph can also be expected. Though rainfall rates during thunderstorms are high, Flynn emphasized that while one inch of rain may not cause widespread flooding, localized flash flooding can occur in urban areas with high pavement coverage.
Impact of the Rainstorm
The rainstorm carries potential benefits as well. It may significantly reduce fire hazards throughout the state and replenish reservoirs and rivers that have been stressed by the preceding dry season.
Overall, conditions are expected to stabilize by Wednesday, allowing the Bay Area to recover from this unusual October rainstorm. Residents are encouraged to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts from the National Weather Service.
