North Bay Interior Valleys and San Francisco Bay Shoreline are included in a coastal flood advisory released by the National Weather Service on Sunday at 6:54 p.m. The advisory is valid from Tuesday 6 a.m. until Sunday Dec. 7, at 3 p.m.
“Up to 1.4 ft of inundation above ground level is possible in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways,” can be anticipated according to the NWS San Francisco CA. “At the San Francisco tidal gauge high tide is expected to be 0.8 ft above normal (6.66 ft MLLW) at 8:24 a.m. Tuesday, 1.2 ft above normal (7.00 ft MLLW) at 9:04 a.m. Wednesday, 1.4 ft above normal (7.20 ft MLLW) at 9:48 a.m. Thursday, 1.4 ft above normal (7.23 ft MLLW) at 10:35 a.m. Friday, 1.2 ft above normal (7.08 ft MLLW) at 11:25 a.m. Saturday, and 0.9 ft above normal (6.75 ft MLLW) at 12:17 p.m. Sunday. High tide timing varies up to 90 minutes earlier or later along the Pacific Coast and throughout the San Francisco Bay respectively.”
“Flooding of lots, parks, and roads with only isolated road closures expected,” according to the NWS. “If travel is required, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Take the necessary actions to protect flood-prone property.”
How to use a sandbag and where to get sandbags in your area:
Follow these instructions on how to use sandbags and other flood preparation tips to protect your home, and click on the links below to get sandbags in your county:
Where to get sandbags in San Mateo County
Where to get sandbags in Alameda County
Where to get sandbags in Santa Clara County
Deciphering advisories, watches, and warnings: Understanding weather alerts
- Flash flood warning: Take action!
A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it’s crucial to move immediately to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden and violent inundation that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas not currently experiencing rainfall.
- Flood warning: Take action!
A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
- Flood advisory: Be aware:
A flood advisory is released when flooding is not expected to reach a severity level necessitating a warning. Nonetheless, it can still cause considerable inconvenience and, without exercising caution, potentially lead to situations that threaten life and/or property.
- Flood watch: Be prepared:
A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.
Be flood-ready: Expert guidance from the NWS for your safety
Floods can pose a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or find yourself camping in a low-lying region. To ensure your safety, the NWS offers essential flood safety guidelines:
Seek higher ground:
If you’re in a flood-prone area, or if you’re camping in a low-lying spot, move to higher ground as a first step.
Adhere to evacuation orders:
If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it promptly. Prior to leaving, secure your home by locking it.
Disconnect utilities and appliances:
If time allows, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards during flooding.
Steer clear of flooded basements and submerged areas:
Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.
Evacuate promptly for safety:
If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.
Stay away from floodwaters:
Never attempt to walk through floodwaters, even if they appear shallow. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can forcefully sweep you off your feet.
Seek higher ground when trapped:
In the event you become trapped by moving water, make your way to the highest point available and contact emergency services by calling 911.
During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the NWS. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.
For more weather alerts in the Bay Area, visit Weather Advisories