Blustery Wake-Up Hits San Francisco With Rain And Gusty Winds

Showers, thunderstorms, and small craft advisories expected as cooler, unsettled weather moves through the region.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:09pm by

A dramatic, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a heavy rainstorm sweeping across the San Francisco Bay, with the Golden Gate Bridge barely visible through the mist and rain.As a powerful storm system moves through the San Francisco Bay Area, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge is nearly obscured by the heavy rain and gusting winds.San Francisco Today

San Francisco residents woke up to a wet, windy start on Sunday with showers, thunderstorms, and gusts up to the low 20s mph. The National Weather Service has issued small craft advisories for parts of the bay and nearby offshore waters, and drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians are advised to use caution due to reduced visibility, ponding on streets, and exposed bridge crossings.

Why it matters

Sudden, blustery weather can create hazardous conditions for commuters, outdoor activities, and small watercraft, underscoring the importance of checking forecasts and advisories before venturing out. San Francisco's coastal location makes it particularly vulnerable to shifts in weather patterns.

The details

The unsettled weather is expected to bring showers and a few thunderstorms throughout the day, with rainfall totals ranging from a quarter to a half inch in lower areas and potentially higher amounts in the coastal ranges. Southwest winds around 13 mph may gust up to the low 20s mph, leading the National Weather Service to issue small craft advisories for parts of the bay and nearby offshore waters.

  • The wet and windy conditions are expected to start early Sunday morning and continue through the afternoon.
  • The heaviest shower coverage should ease late Sunday, with a gradual warming and drying trend starting on Monday, April 13.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing advisories and warnings.

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What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the timing and intensity of the storm system as it moves through the region.

The takeaway

This blustery weather event serves as a reminder for San Francisco residents to stay vigilant and prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions, especially when it comes to commuting, outdoor activities, and water-based recreation.