Sonoma and Marin Coasts Brace for Powerful Winds as Atmospheric River Storm Hits

On Tuesday, November 5th, 2025, a powerful atmospheric river storm is forecast to hit Northern California, with the primary concerns being intense winds and heavy rainfall.

The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning for coastal areas north of the Golden Gate, including the Sonoma and Marin coastlines. Forecasters warn that wind gusts in these regions could reach 60 to 65 mph, with isolated gusts of 65 to 70 mph possible in some areas. Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items and prepare for potential power outages.

In addition to the high wind warnings, a broader wind advisory is in effect for the North Bay, San Francisco, the Peninsula, East Bay, and the Santa Cruz Mountains, where wind gusts are expected to range from 45 to 55 mph.

While the wind is the primary concern, the cold front moving in later on Tuesday evening and overnight will also bring moderate to heavy rain, especially in the North Bay region. The lower elevations in Sonoma, Marin, and Napa counties are forecast to receive between 1 to 2 inches of rain, while the higher terrain and coastal ranges of the North Bay could see rainfall totals between 1.5 and 2.5 inches, with some prominent mountains potentially receiving just under 3 inches.

Forecasters have noted a "meaningful probability" of over 3 inches of rain across the coastal Sonoma County area between Sea Ranch and Bodega Bay. The Central Coast and mountains are also expected to see higher rain totals than the South Bay, with the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Santa Lucia Range/Big Sur Coast forecast to receive between 1 and 2.5 inches of rain.

While the risk of widespread river flooding is low due to the progressive nature of the system and favorable pre-season soil moisture levels, there is a potential for nuisance flooding in urban and poor drainage areas, particularly in the North Bay where the heaviest rain is expected to fall during the Wednesday morning commute.