Rain Comes to Wash Out Dry Spell in Bay Area
After a prolonged period of clear skies, the Bay Area is finally set to receive some much-needed precipitation.
Shift in Weather Pattern
The change began on Monday as pressure dropped steadily across the region, drawing in a low-pressure system from the southwest. Unlike typical winter lows that originate from the Pacific Northwest, this system is expected to bring rain rather than dry air.
Rainfall Forecast
- Late Tuesday Morning: Light showers will commence in Monterey County and the Central Coast.
- Tuesday Night: Rain is anticipated to reach near San Francisco.
- Central Coast, Santa Cruz Mountains, and Big Sur: Up to 2½ inches of precipitation.
- Rest of the Area: Between half an inch and three-quarters of an inch.
Wind Advisory
Wind speeds will increase, particularly in Monterey and San Benito counties, where a wind advisory is in effect from 4 p.m. Tuesday to 4 p.m. Wednesday.
Mild Rain with Occasional Bursts
Meteorologists predict that the rain will be generally mild, with occasional heavier bursts but no widespread intense downpours.
Stronger Storm Expected by Saturday
A more robust system is likely to arrive by Saturday evening, bringing low pressure and a cold front. This storm is expected to be heavier than Tuesday’s rain. While the exact timing and amount remain uncertain, experts anticipate it will persist into next week.
Snowfall in the Sierra Nevada
In the Sierra Nevada, these systems will transition into snow.
- Tuesday Night to Wednesday: Rain showers will shift to snowfall, with stronger winds at higher elevations.
- Saturday and Sunday: A heavier winter storm is projected.
