Bay Area Hit by Atmospheric River: Storm Impacts & Outlook

The San Francisco Bay Area was drenched on Thursday, November 13, 2025, as a powerful atmospheric river storm brought widespread heavy rain and strong winds across the region. This significant weather event led to numerous reports of standing water, minor flooding, and downed trees, causing disruptions for local commuters and residents alike.

Immediate Impact Across the Bay

The atmospheric river made its presence known during the overnight hours, intensifying through the morning commute. This caused considerable impact, with the National Weather Service confirming widespread reports of standing water on roadways, particularly affecting travel routes and creating hazardous driving conditions. Minor flooding was also observed in several low-lying areas.

Wind and Rain Highlights

Preliminary reports highlight the severe nature of the storm’s wind and rain. The strongest wind gusts, clocking in at an impressive 80 mph, were recorded along the immediate coast, higher terrain, and inland passes, notably on Pine Mountain Fire Road in Marin County. Simultaneously, the North Bay and Santa Cruz Mountains bore the brunt of the rainfall, receiving the highest precipitation totals over the initial 24-hour period.

Ongoing Advisories and What to Expect

As the day progressed, some advisories began to lift. Flood advisories that had been in effect for several Bay Area counties expired by 2:30 p.m. Thursday. However, caution remains paramount, as a wind advisory was extended through 4 p.m. Thursday for critical areas including the East Bay, South Bay, the San Francisco Bay shoreline, and the Monterey Bay region.

Forecast: Rain Continues, Unsettled Weekend Ahead

The Bay Area isn’t entirely clear yet. Showers are forecast to continue through Thursday afternoon and into the early evening hours, tapering off gradually. Looking further ahead, forecasters anticipate an additional 0.2 to 0.75 inches of rain across the Bay Area through Friday night. Areas along the Central Coast could see up to 1 inch, with higher elevations potentially receiving even more precipitation. Residents should prepare for unsettled conditions persisting through the upcoming weekend and into early next week, with periodic chances of showers.

FAQs for Bay Area Residents

• When was the storm’s peak impact?
  The most intense rain and strongest winds primarily hit overnight into Thursday morning’s commute, causing the most significant disruptions.
• Are there any active weather alerts right now?
  While flood advisories have expired, a wind advisory for specific parts of the East Bay, South Bay, SF Bay shoreline, and Monterey Bay was active until 4 p.m. Thursday.
• What’s the expected rainfall for the next 24-48 hours?
  An additional 0.2 to 0.75 inches of rain is anticipated across the Bay Area through Friday night, with up to 1 inch possible along the Central Coast and higher elevations.
• Will the weather improve for the weekend?
  Conditions are expected to remain unsettled with continuing chances of showers through the weekend and into the early parts of next week.
• Where did the storm cause the most visible damage?
  The North Bay and Santa Cruz Mountains received the highest rainfall. Wind damage included an 80 mph gust in Marin, a downed tree near San Francisco’s Painted Ladies, and fallen branches and power lines in Oakland’s Moss Avenue and Oakmore neighborhood.

As Bay Area residents continue to navigate these persistent wet and windy conditions, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Always exercise heightened caution when driving, secure any loose outdoor items, and stay up-to-date with the latest local weather reports from trusted sources like CBS News Bay Area.

Bay Area Drenched by Atmospheric River Flooding