Weather warning for showers in the Bay Area Wednesday evening – winds gusting to 40 mph – The Mercury News

The San Francisco Peninsula Coast, Santa Cruz Mountains and Santa Clara Valley including San Jose are under a weather warning for showers by the National Weather Service Wednesday at 6:58 pm The warning is in effect until 7:30 pm.

Wind gusts up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) are possible.

“At 6:58 pm, Doppler radar tracked the shower 10 miles west of Boulder Creek, or 18 miles northwest of Santa Cruz, moving northeast at 20 mph,” according to NWS San Francisco CA. “Waterspouts can easily overturn boats and create hazardous water in the area. Gusty winds can knock down tree limbs and blow away unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is possible.

Areas affected by the warning include Palo Alto, Cupertino, Saratoga, Woodside, Boulder Creek and Portola Valley.

The NWS said, “Monitor the weather closely and be aware of threatening weather conditions. Heavy rain is also possible with this storm and may lead to flooding. Do not drive your vehicle on flooded roads. Showers will be able to produce large amounts of accumulating hail. This may cause fast and dangerous driving conditions if you use dangerous driving.”

Rainy day rules: How to stay safe in heavy rain

When heavy rain comes, the risk of flooding and dangerous driving conditions increases. Whether it’s a prolonged downpour or a rapid runoff, preparation is essential. Here are some important safety tips from NWS to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:

Note the rapid flow of water:

• During heavy rains, avoid playing near culverts or drainage ditches, where fast-moving water can be dangerous.

Maintain safe driving distances:

• The two second rule of thumb is your friend in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure a safe space in adverse conditions.

Slow down and drive carefully:

• On wet roads, slowing down is important. Release the accelerator gradually and avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your route wisely:

• Stick to the center lines to reduce the risk of hydroplaning. Outdoor lanes tend to accumulate water.

Visibility is important:

• Improve your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Be aware of vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can hide them.

Beware of slippery roads:

• The first half hour of rain is when the roads are very slippery due to the mixture of rain, mud, and oil. Use extreme caution at this time.

Keep a safe distance from larger vehicles:

• Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass carefully.

Pay attention to your windshield wipers:

Wiper blades that are too full can impair visibility. If the rain is seriously obstructing your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Take refuge in rest areas or sheltered areas. When parking on the side of the road, park your vehicle as far away from the road as possible, outside the guardrails. Keep your headlights on and turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.

If you are faced with heavy rain, these precautions can make a big difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and listen to guidance from local authorities for a safe trip.

For more weather advisories in the Bay Area, visit Weather Advisories