Northern California Forecast: Cooler Weather and Breezy Conditions Expected Across the Bay Area

The marine layer, which is 3,000 feet deep, is responsible for the widespread stratus clouds that are still presentPhoto byVadym ShashkovonUnsplash

Residents of the Bay Area can expect cooler temperatures and increased winds as a deep upper-level trough moves into the region, bringing changes to the current weather pattern. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in San Francisco, today's temperatures will drop by 5-10 degrees compared to seasonal norms, with stratus clouds and a deep marine layer covering much of the area.

The marine layer, which is 3,000 feet deep, is responsible for the widespread stratus clouds that are still present across 80% of the region as of this morning. However, the clouds are expected to dissipate by this afternoon, making way for clear skies and sunshine across the Bay Area. Despite the sunshine, maximum temperatures will remain cooler than usual, thanks to cooling aloft.

Winds are also anticipated to increase as the ridge of high pressure weakens and an upper-level low-pressure system moves across the Pacific Northwest. While winds are expected to strengthen, they are not likely to reach Wind Advisory criteria. The NWS noted that winds will be a "target of opportunity" for the short-term forecast as these weather systems interact.