Atmospheric River Coming To San Ramon: What To Know

SAN RAMON, CA — An atmospheric river is coming to San Ramon, and heavy rain is expected Wednesday and Thursday. The city is also under a National Weather Service Wind Advisory from 10 p.m. Wednesday until 4 p.m. Thursday. Wind gusts of up to 55 mph are expected along the coast and in higher elevations.

Up to an inch of rain is expected in San Francisco. To the north, from 2 to 4 inches of rain is likely along the lower, sea-facing slopes of the coastal ranges in Northern California and southern Oregon, according to reports.

"Yes, my friends, this is an atmospheric river, but we aren’t expecting days of intense rainfall," National Weather Service forecasters said. "The really intense rainfall from this system is expected to come through late on Wednesday into Thursday, this being the time that the main rain band with the subtropical tap comes through the region."

However, temperatures will "drop like a stone" on Wednesday, bottoming out in the mid-50s to lower 60s for the lower elevations on Thursday and Friday, forecasters said.

The City of San Ramon provides free bags and sand at four locations:

• Athan Downs, Montevideo Drive near San Ramon Valley Blvd
• Central Park, Alcosta Blvd adjacent to the San Ramon Community Center
• San Ramon Sports Park, Sherwood Way

Residents should bring their own shovels. To report clogged storm drains, downed trees, or flooding, call 925-973-2800 during business hours or the San Ramon Valley 911 Communication Center at 925-973-2779 after hours. See here for more information.

The National Weather Service also advises cleaning gutters and drains of leaves, driving slowly on wet roadways, and allowing for extra travel time. Due to the high winds, all large items outside should be brought in or tied down.

Patch staffer Angela Woodall contributed to this report.

SEE ALSO:

• Powerful Storm To Hit Bay Area: 'Temperatures Will Drop Like A Stone'