Bay Area rain: most in 6 months predicted to hit by end of week

OAKLAND, Calif. (KTVU & BCN) - Officials with the National Weather Service are predicting rain toward the end of the week in the Bay Area.

Well over a tenth of an inch is expected to fall in San Francisco and Oakland, which would be the most rain the area has seen since April, according to KTVU meteorologist Steve Paulson.

Rain could move into the area Thursday night and spread south from the North Bay on Friday.

   This is the rainy season's first atmospheric river, which is region in the atmosphere responsible for bringing water vapor from the tropics.

   Weather officials said that it's important to prepare for the rain by changing windshield wipers, checking tires, fixing leaks at home and finishing outdoor projects.

   The rain will mean slick roads, decreased visibility, ponding on roads and gusty winds in the area's hills and mountains and along the immediate coast.

   Weather officials are confident that the rain is coming but are less sure of its timing and the amount.

   Meanwhile, Monday will be cloudy with patchy fog in the morning before becoming partly cloudy. Highs will range from the upper 50s to the mid 60s.

Southwest winds will reach 5 to 10 mph before becoming west reaching 10 to 20 mph in the afternoon.