North Bay Braces for a Wet and Windy Midweek

The North Bay is in for a wild ride this week. A big storm is coming, and it's bringing a mix of rain, wind, and possible thunderstorms. This isn't just any storm; it might turn into what's called an atmospheric river, which means it could carry a lot of moisture from the tropics. The rain is expected to start Wednesday afternoon and get heavier as the day goes on. By Thursday, the rain will be at its worst, with the heaviest downpours happening then. The storm should wind down by Friday, but there might still be a few light showers around. The mountains and coastal areas could see the most rain, with up to 3 inches in some spots. The valleys might get around 1 to 1. 5 inches. But it's not just about the rain. Strong winds are also expected, with gusts up to 50 mph, especially near the coast and mountains. People in Sonoma and Napa counties should make sure to secure any outdoor items that could blow away. Flooding is another concern, especially in areas with poor drainage. Small streams could overflow, and there's even a slight chance of thunderstorms, which could make things even messier. After the rain stops on Friday, the seas will still be rough, with waves up to 20 feet high. This could create dangerous rip currents and sneaker waves, so beachgoers should be extra careful. Temperatures will also drop, with highs in the low 60s and upper 50s and overnight lows possibly reaching the 40s. So, it's a good idea to have warm clothes ready.