Coastal flood advisory issued for North Bay Interior Valleys and San Francisco Bay Shoreline

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On Tuesday at 9 p.m. the NWS San Francisco CA released a coastal flood advisory valid from Thursday, Jul. 9 until Thursday, Jul. 16 for North Bay Interior Valleys and San Francisco Bay Shoreline.

"Up to 1.7 ft of inundation above ground level is possible in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways," can be expected according to the NWS. "At the San Francisco tidal gauge, high tide is expected to be 0.9 ft above normal (6.7 ft MLLW) at 7:25 p.m. 7/9, 1.2 ft above normal (7.0 ft MLLW) at 8:17 p.m. 7/10, 1.5 ft above normal (7.3 ft MLLW) at 9:11 p.m. 7/11, 1.7 ft above normal (7.5 ft MLLW) at 10:06 p.m. 7/12, 1.7 ft above normal (7.5 ft MLLW) at 11:01 p.m. 7/13, 1.6 ft above normal (7.4 ft MLLW) at 11:55 p.m. 7/14, 1.3 ft above normal (7.1 ft MLLW) at 12:48 a.m. 7/16. These predictions include both astronomical tides and roughly 3-6 inches of additional water mainly from a combination of thermal expansion and accumulated sea level rise since the tidal datum was established (1983-2001). High tide varies up to 90 minutes earlier or later along the Pacific Coast and through the San Francisco Bay, respectively."

"High tide flooding of lots, parks, and roads with only isolated road closures expected," says the NWS. "If travel is required, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Take the necessary actions to protect flood-prone property."

This advisory is in effect until Jul. 16 at 4 a.m.

Recommendations from the NWS for staying safe during a flood

If you reside in a flood-prone area or you are camping in a low-lying area, move to higher ground. If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home before departing. If time allows, disconnect utilities and appliances. Avoid basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords. If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be charged with electricity and do not attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet. If you become trapped by moving water, seek the highest possible point and contact emergency services by calling 911.

When heavy rain occurs, there is a potential for flooding, particularly in areas that are low-lying or prone to floods. It is crucial to never drive through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can carry away most vehicles.

What steps to follow when driving in the rain?

• Turn on headlights - Even in daylight, using headlights can help improve visibility and let other drivers know where you are.
• While on the road - Opt for the middle lanes and remain on higher ground. Rainwater tends to gather along the road edges.
• Keep clear of puddles - Driving through puddles or low rainwater areas can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control
• Do not follow large vehicles closely - Large vehicles like trucks or buses can create a spray of water that can reduce your visibility.
• Steer clear of flooded areas - When coming to a flooded road, turn around and head back. Flash flooding currents are strong and can sweep drivers off roadways. Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.

What is hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle starts sliding uncontrollably on wet roads.

This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. The top three contributors to hydroplaning are:

1. Vehicle speed - When a vehicle's speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.
2. Water depth - The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn't matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.
3. Tire tread depth - Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.

In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here's what to know:

• Ease off the accelerator - Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.
• Turn into the skid - Turning into the skid can help the vehicle's tires realign to regain control.
• Make sure the tires reconnect with the road - During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.
• Brake gently as needed - Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.

Source: The National Weather Service

United Robots California

This story was originally published July 7, 2026 at 9:04 PM.