National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Fire Weather Concerns and Severe Thunderstorms through the Weekend

Dry and windy conditions, and some dry thunderstorms and lightning, may support hazardous fire activity in the northern Plains, high southern Plains and the Southwest this weekend. An active severe weather pattern is forecast for portions of the central and southern High Plains into the Upper Midwest through early the part of next week. Damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes are possible. Read More >

COASTAL FLOOD ADVISORY: San Pablo Bay Shoreline 🌊 A Coastal Flood Advisory has been issued for bayshore locations along San Pablo Bay from 10 PM Saturday through 3 AM Tuesday. What to expect: Up to 1.0 foot of saltwater inundation above ground level in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. Peak impacts will occur around high tide cycles in San Francisco: Saturday 5/16: 11:31 PM Monday 5/18: 12:17 AM Tuesday 5/19: 1:07 AM Safety Actions: 🚗 Travel: Allow extra time for commutes. Never drive through water or around barricades. 🏠 Property: Take steps now to protect flood-prone property near the shoreline. Stay tuned for further updates. #CAwx #BayAreaWX
WINDY WEEKEND AHEAD 🌬️🚩 Expect a blustery weekend across the Bay Area and Central Coast as moderate to strong west to northwest winds move through the region. Timing: Winds will persist through Monday morning, with the strongest gusts expected throughout Saturday and Sunday. Expected Gusts: Valleys: 25 to 35 mph. Coast, Gaps, & Ridges: 35 to 45 mph (local gusts up to 50 mph). Potential Impacts: 🌳 Loose branches and isolated falling trees. 💡 Possible isolated power outages. 🚗 Difficult driving conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles on bridges and open highways. 🌊 Blowing sand and large waves at the coast. Secure your outdoor furniture and use extra caution if you have travel plans this weekend! #CAwx #BayAreaWX
⚠️ ELEVATED FIRE WEATHER THREAT THROUGH MONDAY We are tracking a period of elevated fire weather risk across the Interior Bay Area and Central Coast through Monday afternoon. While the overall risk level is currently "Minor," the combination of dry fuels and gusty winds creates a recipe for rapid fire spread if an ignition occurs. What to expect: Humidity: Very dry conditions with RH values between 10-25%, especially in the higher terrain across the region. Winds: Sustained winds of 20-30 mph, with local gusts reaching 45-50 mph. Impacts: Rapid rates of spread possible on any wind-and-terrain aligned starts. How you can help: Practice "One Less Spark" today. Avoid using lawnmowers or grinders in dry vegetation, ensure tow chains aren't dragging on the pavement, and never leave a campfire unattended. Stay weather-aware: weather.gov/BayArea
HEADS UP: If you’re planning a trip to the coast this weekend, please stay alert! 🌊 A Beach Hazards Statement is in effect from now through Monday morning for west-facing beaches along the Pacific Coast. Strong northerly winds are set to generate very rough conditions, including powerful rip and longshore currents. What you need to know: Safety First: Rough seas can suddenly sweep people off beaches, rocks, and jetties. Stay off the rocks! Cold Water: Strong upwelling will cause water temperatures to plunge—expect a shock if you enter the water. Tidal Swings: Large tidal swings could trap walkers by cutting off exits. Erosion: Intense waves may make coastal terrain and cliffs unstable. Respect the power of the Pacific: Stay back from the water’s edge and NEVER turn your back on the ocean.

 

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