San Francisco is in the grip of a powerful storm, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous coastal conditions. Meteorologists warn that this system, driven by an atmospheric river, will continue to impact the Bay Area, creating hazardous conditions on the roads, in the skies, and along the coast.
Current Conditions
Right now, the temperature sits at a chilly 54°F (12°C) under cloudy skies. Occasional rain showers continue to move through the area, with blustery winds adding to the discomfort.
What to Expect in the Coming Days
- Friday, February 14: Expect occasional showers early in the morning, followed by breaks of sun in the afternoon. Winds will remain gusty. High of 57°F (14°C), dropping to a low of 41°F (5°C) at night.
- Saturday, February 15: A calmer day with some sunshine through high clouds. High near 56°F (14°C), low of 45°F (7°C).
- Sunday, February 16: More cloud cover moves in, with a chance of rain showers in the afternoon. High of 57°F (14°C), low of 48°F (9°C).
Serious Weather Warnings in Effect
Authorities have issued multiple alerts as the storm intensifies.
- Flood Watch: Heavy rainfall continues to saturate the Bay Area, increasing the risk of urban and small-stream flooding. Low-lying areas and streets prone to flooding could become dangerous quickly. Avoid driving through standing water.
- Wind Advisory: Powerful winds are sweeping through the region, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph in some areas. These strong winds can topple trees, down power lines, and make driving hazardous, especially on bridges and highways.
- High Surf Warning: Massive waves, some as high as 45 feet, are crashing against west-facing beaches. Conditions are life-threatening, and authorities urge everyone to stay far away from the shoreline. Sneaker waves can pull even experienced swimmers out to sea in an instant.
How This Storm Is Already Impacting San Francisco
The Bay Area is already feeling the effects of this intense storm. Roads are flooding in multiple locations, leading to traffic standstills and accidents. In the East Bay, major freeways are experiencing water buildup, causing delays. Meanwhile, in Santa Cruz County, emergency evacuations are underway as rivers rise dangerously close to flood levels.
What You Should Do Right Now
- Stay off the roads if possible: With water pooling on highways and wind gusts making travel risky, avoid driving unless absolutely necessary.
- Secure outdoor objects: The high winds can turn patio furniture, trash bins, and even construction materials into dangerous projectiles. Bring in or secure any loose items around your home.
- Stay away from the coast: Giant waves and dangerous rip currents make the beaches extremely hazardous. Do not attempt to take photos or watch the waves up close—many people have been swept away in past storms.
- Prepare for power outages: With high winds and soaked ground, trees and power lines may come down, leading to widespread outages. Charge your devices now and have flashlights ready.
Final Warning
This storm is serious, and conditions can change rapidly. If you’re in a flood-prone area, stay alert and be ready to evacuate if necessary. Keep an eye on weather updates and follow emergency instructions.
