San Rafael, CA – A storm approaching the San Francisco Bay Area is forecast to bring gusty winds, thunderstorms and heavy rain to Marin. Residents are urged to take action to prepare for severe weather this weekend, and exercise caution while the storm is underway.
National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for Friday night (midnight) through Saturday early afternoon. Winds gusts are expected to reach 40 MPH in the lowlands, 45-55 MPH along the coast and bayside, and up to 60 MPH for areas above 1,500 feet elevation.
Periods of heavy rain and possible thunderstorms are expected to begin late Friday night and continue through Sunday morning, possibly bringing up to 2-3 inches of rain in some areas of the County.
The combination of strong wind and rain could result in the following hazards around the county:
- Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects and blow down tree limbs.
- Power outages may result from strong winds and rain.
- Localized flooding could occur in low-lying areas or where storm drains or drainage systems are temporarily blocked by debris.
- Slick roadways.
- Rising creeks and streams. However, levels are currently forecast to remain below flood stage.
Residents are encouraged to take the following actions to prepare for the approaching storm:
- Secure outdoor objects that could be blown over by wind (e.g, patio furniture, sports equipment, trash cans, pop-up canopies)
- Rake leaves and other yard debris and place in green bin (to keep out of gutters and storm drains)
- Make sure your emergency kit is up-to-date: have a flashlight, radio and spare batteries handy if the power goes out.
- Protect homes and businesses in low-lying flood-prone areas by making sandbags.
- Mariners / Houseboat occupants should secure vessel for severe wind and seas
- Sign up to receive AlertMarin emergency calls, text message or email alerts.
- Visit Emergency.MarinCounty.org for additional resources for preparing for a storm.
Most importantly, residents should exercise caution during periods of heavy rain and strong winds. Steps to stay safe include:
- Avoid unnecessary travel. Strong winds and wet roads make travel risky, and possible flooding may prevent you from returning home. Staying home is the safest option until the storm passes. If its an emergency, allow emergency responders to come to you.
- Use extra caution when driving. If you MUST leave your home, drive carefully: slow down, keep both hands on steering wheel, turn on head lights, allow extra space between vehicles, and watch for downed tree branches, trees, and powerlines.
- Stay away from downed power lines. Always assume a fallen power line is live and do not touch it with your hand or other object. Call 9-1-1 immediately to report the fallen line.
- Do not walk or drive through standing water. Turn around, do not drown. If it’s an emergency, allow emergency responders to come to you.
- Avoid the coast and beaches.
- Mariners / Houseboats should remain in port. Strong winds and cause hazardous seas which could capsize or damage vessels.
- Monitor Emergency.MarinCounty.org for the most up-to-date emergency information.