Northern California Faces Coastal Flood Advisory: Thursday to Sunday

A coastal flood advisory has been issued for Northern California, specifically for Northern Monterey Bay, Big Sur, and San Francisco County. The National Weather Service (NWS) San Francisco announced the advisory on Wednesday at 8:07 p.m., with its validity stretching from Thursday at 6 a.m. until Sunday at noon.

Northern California Coastal Flood Advisory Details

The advisory highlights the potential for inundation up to 1.4 feet in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways. Here are critical tidal predictions from the San Francisco gauge:

• Thursday, 1/29: 7:34 a.m. – 1.2 ft above normal (7.02 ft MLLW)
• Friday, 1/30: 8:34 a.m. – 1.1 ft above normal (6.98 ft MLLW)
• Saturday, 1/31: 9:30 a.m. – 1.4 ft above normal (7.24 ft MLLW)
• Sunday, 2/1: 10:22 a.m. – 1.3 ft above normal (7.16 ft MLLW)

These predictions are influenced by an expected storm surge that could enhance tidal flooding threats by an additional 0.4 feet. Coastal residents should note that tidal timing may vary by as much as 90 minutes along the Pacific Coast and within the San Francisco Bay area.

Potential Hazards and Safety Recommendations

The NWS warns of dangerous conditions, urging caution along the shoreline due to hazards such as sneaker waves, strong rip currents, and large breaking waves. Isolated road closures may occur as flooding could affect lots, parks, and roads.

Travelers are advised to:

• Allow extra time for travel as road closures may be in effect.
• Avoid driving around barricades or through standing water.
• Proactively safeguard flood-prone properties.
• Stay off jetties, piers, and rocks.
• Avoid entering potentially hazardous waters.

Flood Safety Precautions

Residents in flood-prone areas should consider the following safety measures:

• Get to higher ground immediately if flooding occurs.
• Evacuate if instructed to do so.
• Lock your home when leaving.
• Disconnect utilities when possible.
• Stay clear of floodwaters, which can be deceptively powerful.

It’s important to remember that just 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, while 12 inches can sweep away most vehicles. If you find yourself trapped, seek the highest available point and call for emergency assistance if possible.

Driving in Flood Conditions

When facing rainy weather or flooding, adhere to these driving guidelines:

• Always turn on headlights to enhance visibility.
• Stay in middle lanes and on elevated ground to avoid water accumulation.
• Avoid driving through puddles or low-lying areas.
• Keep distance from larger vehicles to minimize water spray and visibility issues.
• Flee from flooded areas; turning around is safer than taking risks.

Lastly, be aware of hydroplaning, which occurs when tires lose grip on wet roads. If hydroplaning happens:

• Ease off the accelerator to slow down.
• Steer into the direction of the skid.
• Wait for the tires to regain traction before steering straight.

With a coastal flood advisory in effect until Sunday noon, residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared. For continuous updates and safety information, visit Filmogaz.com.