Central Coast residents are bracing for a significant change in weather as a gale-force low-pressure system approaches from the Oregon/Washington border. This system, aided by a dip in the polar jet stream, is expected to bring rain and potential thunderstorms throughout the day.
As of now, rain showers are already occurring to the north, although lightning remains confined to Oregon. Early in this weather event, rainfall may struggle to reach the surface, but conditions are set to improve as clouds lower and showers become more widespread and intense by the afternoon and into the evening. Commuters should prepare for possible disruptions due to rain during peak travel hours.
Strong southwest winds are forecasted, with gusts reaching up to 35 mph in higher terrain areas of the Bay Area, while gusts in the Central Coast’s elevated regions may peak between 35-45 mph. Rainfall totals will vary significantly depending on where thunderstorms develop. The environment is conducive to thunderstorms, which could bring lightning, nuisance flooding, small hail, and erratic winds, as well as the potential for waterspouts.
The majority of rainfall and the most significant thunderstorm chances are expected today. After the surface low pressure and its cold front move southeast tonight, lingering post-frontal rain showers and thunderstorms may persist into Tuesday. Notably, this system is projected to lower temperatures, putting the daily minimum temperature record for the 850 millibar level at risk on Tuesday.
In particular, the San Jose area could see their daily low maximum temperature potentially competing with a record dating back to 1948. Following this, chilly and calm conditions will sweep in on Tuesday night, leading to near-freezing temperatures in far interior areas of Monterey and San Benito counties east of Highway 101, along with widespread fog. This lingering moisture may create conditions that feel colder than the actual temperature, prompting residents to take precautions for people, pets, and plants. Patchy frost may also develop in sheltered locations.
Fortunately for the Central Coast, a brief warming and drying trend is expected from Wednesday through Saturday, although more rain may return by Sunday and into early next week. Residents are encouraged to stay updated with the latest weather alerts and prepare for fluctuating conditions in the days ahead.