A significant storm hit the Bay Area on Monday, October 13, 2025, leading to widespread flooding and prompting a flood advisory across multiple counties, including San Francisco, Alameda, and Santa Clara. The National Weather Service issued warnings of potential flash floods, particularly in areas affected by recent wildfires, such as Napa County’s Pickett Fire burn scar.
The heavy rainfall, described as the largest in months, resulted in minor flooding in various locations, especially San Francisco, where residents encountered waterlogged streets and obstructed traffic. Major intersections, including Divisadero and Post streets, saw puddles form, trapping pedestrians and disrupting vehicles. San Francisco Public Works mobilized crews to address storm drain clogs primarily caused by fallen leaves, leading to localized flooding.
Reports of flooding came in the late afternoon, with areas like Alemany Boulevard and 17th and Folsom streets heavily impacted. Denny Machuca-Grebe from the San Francisco Department of Emergency Management reassured residents that emergency services were in coordination to manage the reported hazards effectively.
The flooding also extended beyond San Francisco, causing numerous traffic incidents throughout the Bay Area, with the California Highway Patrol documenting collisions and flooded roadways in cities such as Oakland and San Jose. Additionally, a suspected tornado was reported near Pescadero in San Mateo County, with a survey team dispatched to assess the damages.
Compounding the storm’s effects, the National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for regions surrounding the Pickett Fire area in Napa County, emphasizing the risk of debris flows from steep, scorched terrain. While heavy rain was expected to taper off, forecasters warned that saturated soil could lead to dangerous conditions.
Officials reiterated the importance of safety, advising residents to stay home during the storm and avoid driving through flooded areas. Those witnessing flooding were encouraged to report it to local emergency services when it was safe to do so. Despite the challenges, emergency crews and weather agencies continue to work diligently in response to the storm’s aftermath, aiming to ensure public safety in the affected regions.