This weekend’s weather is shaping up to be a wild ride across the United States, with a rare tornado warning issued for San Francisco, intense storms in California, and wintry conditions stretching from the Midwest to the Mid-Atlantic. Here’s what you need to know.
Tornado Warning in San Francisco.
In an unprecedented turn of events, downtown San Francisco and San Mateo County were under a tornado warning early Saturday morning. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued the alert around 6 a.m. PT but quickly lifted it. Experts believe this might be the first tornado warning ever recorded in the region.
Even though the warning was short-lived, the Bay Area is not out of the woods. An atmospheric river event is bringing heavy rain and gusty winds, with a high risk of flooding. Northern and central California, including San Francisco, are bracing for rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches. Mountainous regions, like the Sierra Nevada, are under winter storm warnings and could see significant snowfall.
Power Outages and High Winds.
Storm impacts have already led to power outages across San Francisco, with city officials urging residents to stay safe. Coastal regions and mountains in northern and central California are experiencing wind gusts between 40 and 60 mph, which can exacerbate the risk of downed trees and power lines. Western Washington and parts of British Columbia are also facing similar high winds.
Heavy Rain, Mudslides, and Snow.
Low-lying areas in central California are at risk of mudslides and debris flows as 1 to 2 inches of rain are expected. Residents in flood-prone areas should prepare for road closures and possible evacuations. Meanwhile, the Sierra Nevada and Coastal Ranges are forecasted to receive substantial snowfall, making travel hazardous in those regions.
The Broader Western U.S. Impact.
The same storm system is making its way across other parts of the western United States. Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, and Montana are seeing a mix of rain and snow. Mountain regions, such as central Idaho and western Wyoming, could receive up to 12 inches of snow. Winter weather advisories are in effect for Utah’s Wasatch and Uinta Mountains, where snow totals may reach 15 inches in some areas.
Midwest and Mid-Atlantic: Ice and Freezing Rain
The storm’s icy grip is extending into the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic. Parts of Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin are under ice storm warnings, with freezing rain making travel nearly impossible. Some areas in Iowa saw roads turn into sheets of ice, prompting travel advisories. The Great Lakes region, including Green Bay, Wisconsin, and Traverse City, Michigan, will see snow and freezing rain into Sunday.
Further east, winter weather advisories cover areas of Virginia, North Carolina, and West Virginia, where freezing rain and sleet are expected. Residents are being warned about icy roads and potential power outages.
Warmer Spots Amid the Chill.
Not all of the U.S. is under siege by harsh weather. Texas, the southern Plains, and parts of Florida are enjoying unseasonably warm temperatures. Highs in these areas are climbing into the 70s and even the low 80s, offering a sharp contrast to the wintry chaos elsewhere.
Stay Safe and Informed.
As the weekend progresses, it’s essential to stay updated with local forecasts and follow safety recommendations. Whether you’re dealing with rain, snow, ice, or sunshine, planning ahead will help you navigate this tumultuous weekend weather.