Sun Feb 22 06:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Bay Area Braces for Cold Snap and Potential Atmospheric River
The Story:
The San Francisco Bay Area is experiencing a sharp drop in temperatures following a day of gusty winds and scattered showers on December 20, 2023. Inland valleys are expected to dip into the low 30s, prompting a cold weather advisory and extreme cold warning for some areas. While no record lows are expected to be broken, forecasters caution about potential slick spots due to damp ground and subfreezing temperatures. Looking ahead, a significant warmup is anticipated by Sunday, December 22, 2023, with a potential atmospheric river bringing widespread rain from Monday, December 23, 2023, into Tuesday, December 24, 2023, raising concerns about minor flooding and hazardous travel conditions.
Key Points:
* A cold weather advisory and extreme cold warning are in effect for portions of the Bay Area.
* Inland valleys are expected to reach the low 30s.
* Gusts between 40 and 50 mph were recorded along the coast and in higher elevations on Thursday, December 19, 2023.
* A warmup is expected by Sunday, December 22, 2023, potentially leading to an atmospheric river bringing rain early the following week.
* Minor flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas is possible.
* No record lows are currently forecast to be broken.
Key Takeaways:
* The Bay Area is experiencing a significant cold snap.
* The combination of cold temperatures and moisture poses a risk of slick conditions.
* A potential atmospheric river could bring substantial rainfall and flooding risks early the following week.
* The weather pattern is highly variable, transitioning from extreme cold to heavy rain within a short period.
* Residents should prepare for both cold weather hazards and potential flooding.
First Piper 