While the Bay Area enjoys clear skies and cooler temperatures, record‑high October tides are set to bring unexpected flooding.
Key points
- Temperatures will stay in the 60s‑70s, below normal for early October.
- A coastal flood advisory is in effect through Thursday due to unusually high tides.
- No rain is expected, but strong northwest winds and gusts up to 25 mph will accompany the sunny conditions.
- El Niño‑driven jet stream activity may bring heavy rain to Southern California while the Bay Area remains relatively dry.
The San Francisco Chronicle’s latest forecast shows high temperatures lingering in the 60s across the Bay Area on Monday, with inland valleys reaching the low 70s and coastal beaches in Marin and Sonoma staying in the upper 50s. Similar readings are expected through at least Thursday, keeping daytime warmth below seasonal norms.
Despite the lack of rain for the next five days, officials have issued a coastal flood advisory through Thursday afternoon for San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, Monterey Bay and the Pacific Coast. Record‑high October tides could push water levels up to two feet above a typical high tide, potentially inundating low‑lying roads, parks, lots and trails.
Temperature Outlook
Morning clouds and patchy fog are forecast for many parts of the region, but most areas should clear to mostly sunny skies by early afternoon. Northwest winds will bring gusts of 15‑25 mph, especially along the coast and peninsula, while inland gusts may reach 20 mph.
Overnight lows will dip into the upper 30s to 40s inland and the upper 40s to mid‑50s along the shoreline, with a similar pattern expected each night through Thursday. The jet stream associated with El Niño is projected to target the California‑Mexico border this weekend, bringing heavy rain to Southern California while the Bay Area remains on the drier side of the system.
Coastal Flood Advisory
Residents are advised to monitor local tide charts and heed any road closures or flood warnings, especially in areas adjacent to San Pablo Bay and other low‑lying coastal zones.
Reader questions
What causes "sunny day flooding" in the Bay Area?
Even without rain, record‑high October tides can raise water levels enough to overflow low‑lying streets and parks, especially when combined with on‑shore winds.
Will the Bay Area see any rain this week?
According to the forecast, no measurable rain is expected for the next five days.
How high could the tides get during the advisory period?
Water levels could be up to two feet higher than a typical high tide, prompting the coastal flood advisory.
Source: sfchronicle.com
