California Could Face 50-Foot Waves as Storms Slam Its Coast
Storms bring statewide rain
Two storms are expected to move across California over the next week. Together, they could bring the state its first widespread soaking of the season, along with strong winds.
The first system is forecast to bring rain across the state on Friday. It could reach the North Bay late Thursday night, with intermittent rain and blustery winds in the Bay Area through much of Friday.
Rainfall varies by region
The heaviest precipitation is expected along the North Coast, where totals could reach six inches over the next week. The San Francisco Bay Area could receive up to two inches.
Warm waters and El Niño
The storms arrive while waters off California are unusually warm and El Niño continues to strengthen. This climate pattern can shift weather around the globe and often brings wetter-than-normal winters to California.
El Niño can also raise sea levels enough to contribute to flooding. Large waves are expected along the coast as the storm systems pass.
Key points
- California is forecast to see rain, wind, snow and large waves over the next week.
- The North Coast could receive up to six inches of rain.
- The Bay Area could get up to two inches; Los Angeles is likely to get less than one.
- The first storm could reach the North Bay late Thursday night, ahead of Friday rain statewide.