Residents of San Francisco experienced an unexpected alert Saturday morning when the city received its first-ever tornado warning. This significant weather event marked a historical moment, as prior tornado warnings had only been issued in the nearby San Mateo County.
The warning was disseminated around 6 AM PST as a line of strong thunderstorms moved toward the coast. Meteorologists detected rotation on radar, which indicated a potential for a waterspout moving offshore. This area of rotation later advanced into San Francisco County, tracking close to the Golden Gate Bridge.
As the rotation moved along the northern side of the city, particularly near Highway 101 and the Marina District, it eventually dissipated in the Bay. While there was no confirmed tornado, officials have not completely dismissed the possibility.
In addition to the tornado warning, residents reported downed trees across San Francisco and parts of Central and Northern California as powerful gusts were associated with the squall line. The San Francisco airport recorded a remarkable wind gust of 83 mph.
The Storm Prediction Center initially issued a marginal risk for damaging winds overnight but later upgraded it to include a risk for tornadoes shortly before the warning was announced.
This event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather patterns, especially in urban environments like San Francisco. Community awareness and preparedness are crucial in facing such extreme weather conditions.
While the day may have started with a sense of alarm, it also showcases the resilience and preparedness of the city’s emergency services and the ability of meteorologists to provide timely warnings. With continued vigilance, residents can feel hopeful about their safety in the face of severe weather events.