Key Takeaways
- The East Bay is expected to experience heavy rain and strong winds from a storm system arriving late Tuesday night
- Wind gusts could top 50 miles per hour, and heavy rain may cause flash floods and damaging winds
- The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch and high wind watch for the Bay Area and Central Coast
- Soils are saturated, and the next rounds of rain could deluge creeks, storm drains, and flood-prone areas
- The weekend is expected to offer a break from the rain, but the region should be prepared for potential flooding and damage
Introduction to the Storm
A tree toppled by strong winds from a storm in 2023 is a stark reminder of the power of nature. Recently, winter storms have been bringing flash floods and damaging winds to the East Bay, with the Berkeley Hills seeing 2.5 inches of rain since Sunday, according to the National Weather Service. Meteorologist Brian Garcia warns that this is just the beginning, saying, "This was just the teaser." As the current storm system moves out of the region, it’s dragging in another area of low pressure that sets the stage for a more dangerous system to arrive late Tuesday night.
Forecast and Expected Conditions
The forecast for Berkeley is ominous, with wind gusts that could top 50 miles per hour and even heavier rain from the incoming storm. At one point early Wednesday morning, an especially strong band is forecast to drop as much as 1.5 inches of rain in an hour as it rolls through the Bay Area. This intense rainfall, combined with the already saturated soils, could lead to flash floods and damaging winds. The East Bay is expected to get about 2 inches of rain by Christmas morning, with higher amounts in the hills than the flatlands. While there will be gaps between the heaviest rainfall, allowing for some respite, the landscape will not have enough time to absorb all of the water falling this week.
Flood and Wind Watches
The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch covering the Bay Area and Central Coast from Tuesday evening through Friday, when the forecast shows the potential for another rainy day. This watch is a warning to residents to be prepared for potential flooding and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Additionally, the Weather Service has posted a high wind watch from Tuesday evening through early Wednesday morning, warning of gusts that could take down branches or entire trees. Garcia explains that the gusts, which will blow from south to north, could cause significant damage and disruption.
Potential Consequences and Preparations
With soils saturated, Garcia says, the next rounds of rain could deluge creeks, storm drains, and flood-prone areas. The phrase "there’s not going to be any room at the inn" is a stark reminder that the landscape is already at capacity, and any additional rainfall will result in runoff. This could lead to flash floods, damaging winds, and disruptions to daily life. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions, such as clearing drains and gutters, securing outdoor furniture and decorations, and having a plan in place in case of an emergency.
Conclusion and Outlook
The weekend is expected to offer the Bay Area’s first chance to get a break from all the rain, but the region should be prepared for potential flooding and damage. Garcia emphasizes that the storm system is complex and dynamic, and residents should stay informed and up-to-date with the latest forecast and warnings. By taking necessary precautions and being prepared, residents can minimize the risks associated with the storm and stay safe. As the region braces for the incoming storm, it’s essential to prioritize safety and take proactive steps to mitigate the potential consequences of the heavy rain and strong winds.