California Braces for Heavy Rain and Winds This Week
San Francisco, California — Residents in California are preparing for a series of storms this week, as the National Weather Service (NWS) issues warnings for heavy rain and strong winds. The storms are expected to start as early as Monday, with some showers in Northern California before spreading southward by Monday night.
According to AccuWeather senior meteorologist Heather Zehr, California’s wet season typically begins in October. This year, the state has already experienced several storms, aided by an atmospheric river earlier this month. The incoming storm will further contribute to this wet pattern, prompting NWS offices to issue coastal flood and wind advisories throughout Central and Northern California.
Weather alerts are already in place for millions, especially in cities like Sacramento and Oakland. Most advisories will activate on Tuesday, coinciding with the arrival of the storm system. The NWS indicated that a strong cyclone in the northeast Pacific will enhance the existing front, resulting in breezy conditions and the potential for heavy rainfall.
Rainfall is expected to impact areas from Central California all the way to Washington state, starting Tuesday night and continuing into Wednesday. Coastal regions in California, Oregon, and Washington, along with mountainous areas, could receive up to 4 inches of rain during the storm.
AccuWeather meteorologist Chad Merrill noted that continued weather patterns suggest more wet weather could persist through the middle of November. However, a potential shift toward drier and warmer conditions may occur around Thanksgiving.
The NWS San Francisco has also issued wind advisories, warning that gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects and possibly lead to tree damage and power outages. Residents are urged to secure loose items outdoors and take extra caution while driving.
Merrill remarked that this upcoming atmospheric river is similar to one that struck the region in late October, which resulted in significant rainfall in places like Eureka, California, and Portland, Oregon.
As the storm approaches, California residents are advised to stay informed and follow local weather updates to ensure safety during severe weather conditions.
