Bay Area Braces for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Ahead of Thursday Morning Commute
Forecasters are warning residents of the San Francisco Bay Area to expect heavy rain and fierce winds during Thursday morning's rush hour, conditions that could disrupt travel and increase the risk of localized flooding.
Roger Gass, a meteorologist with the regional weather service, explained that the approaching atmospheric river is unlikely to stall, a factor that typically drives higher rainfall totals. He indicated that most locations could see between half an inch and an inch of rain by mid‑day, while wind gusts may reach 40 to 50 miles per hour along the coast and in exposed valleys.
The forecast follows a series of similar storms that have tested the area's drainage and transportation infrastructure over the past year. Local officials urged commuters to allow extra travel time, avoid non‑essential trips, and stay alert for possible road closures. Public transit agencies announced additional service alerts, and utility companies pre‑positioned crews to respond quickly to any power outages caused by wind‑driven debris.
Authorities will continue to monitor the system throughout the day, with updates expected every hour. Experts anticipate that conditions will improve by late evening as the atmospheric river moves offshore, but they cautioned that residual rain could keep waterways above normal levels into the weekend. Residents are advised to stay informed via official weather channels and to follow any guidance issued by emergency management agencies.
