Coastal flood advisory - Bay Area underwater? Notice issued for Northern California until Tuesday

On Monday at 2:06 a.m., the National Weather Service (NWS) San Francisco CA sent out a coastal flood advisory. It’s valid from Monday 7 p.m. to Tuesday midnight, according to the report by The Sacramento Bee.

The advisory is for

• North Bay Interior Valleys

• San Francisco Bay Shoreline

• San Francisco County

What’s happening

Minor coastal flooding is expected. In low-lying areas near shores and tidal rivers, water may rise up to 1 foot above the ground. At the San Francisco tidal gauge, high tide was expected to reach 1.04 feet above normal (6.88 ft MLLW) at 9:02 p.m. Monday.


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High tide timing can change up to 2 hours earlier or later depending on location, as per the report by The Sacramento Bee.

Flooding may affect

• Parking lots

• Parks

• Roads – but only some isolated road closures expected

Avoid traveling through flooded roads. Don’t drive around barricades or through water if you don't know how deep it is. Allow extra travel time – some roads might be closed. Take steps to protect property that usually floods, as per the reports.

What to do during a flood

If you're in a flood area or camping low, go to higher ground right away. If officials tell you to evacuate, leave immediately. Lock your home before you leave. If there's time, disconnect utilities and appliances. Don’t enter rooms with underwater electrical cords or outlets.

If you hear weird sounds like buzzing, snapping, or popping, get out right away — there could be electricity in the water. Don’t walk in floodwater — even water as low as your ankle can knock you down.

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If stuck in water, go to the highest spot and call 911. Never drive through floodwater – even 12 inches of moving water can sweep away most cars, as per the The Sacramento Bee.

Rainy weather driving tips

Turn on headlights even during the day – helps others see you. Drive in the middle lanes and stay on higher ground. Avoid puddles – your car might lose control or hydroplane. Don’t drive close behind buses or trucks – they splash water and block your view, as per The Sacramento Bee report.

If you see a flooded road, turn around – don’t risk it. Driving through deep water can damage your car's engine or electronics.

What is Hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning, when your car slides on water instead of gripping the road. It happens when water builds up faster than your tires can push it away. Car lifts and rides on a thin water layer – makes you lose control, as per the reports.

Main causes of Hydroplaning

• High speed – the faster you go, the less grip your tires have.

• Water depth – even shallow water can make you skid.

• Low tire tread – worn-out tires increase risk.

What to do if you Hydroplane

Take your foot off the gas – slow down naturally. Turn in the direction of the skid – this helps regain control. Wait till the tires grip the road again, then straighten out. If needed, brake gently – if you have anti-lock brakes, just press normally. If not, pump the brakes lightly, as per The Sacramento Bee report.

FAQs

Q1. Is there flooding in the Bay Area right now?
Yes, the National Weather Service has issued a coastal flood advisory for the Bay Area until Tuesday midnight.

Q2. How dangerous is Bay Area floodwater during high tide?
Even 6 inches of floodwater can knock you over, and it might carry electric current if power lines are down.