A mild yet moisture-rich weather system is set to bring rain across the Bay Area on Wednesday, leading into New Year’s Eve celebrations. Residents can expect persistent rainfall throughout the afternoon and evening, which may result in wet roads and reduced visibility during the evening commute. As people prepare to gather at the Embarcadero for San Francisco’s midnight fireworks, they’ll encounter cloudy skies, breezy conditions, and a significant chance of rain.
This weather system is tapping into subtropical moisture, yielding steady rain rather than mere brief showers. While winds may occasionally gust—particularly near the coast and in elevated areas—temperatures are expected to hover around the mid-40s by the stroke of midnight. For those planning to watch the fireworks, it’s advisable to bring umbrellas and rain jackets, as slick sidewalks and roadways could slow travel.
Looking toward New Year’s Day, the forecast calls for a cold front to sweep through the region, bringing cooler air and lingering showers throughout the day. Snow levels in the Sierra are also expected to lower. Even though the anticipated rainfall amounts are not extreme, the shift from mild, moist air to colder conditions will be quite noticeable.
As showers gradually taper off late Friday into the weekend, January weather is expected to settle into a more typical cool pattern. Those celebrating outdoors this New Year’s Eve are encouraged to plan for rain and breezy conditions, welcoming 2026 with layers and a bit of weather wisdom. The upcoming days may be damp, but they also promise to usher in the new year with a refreshing change in the atmosphere.