Strong winds, heavy rain expected as atmospheric river reaches Bay Area midweek

The National Weather Service warned that an atmospheric river is expected to bring strong winds, moderate to heavy rain, and a small chance of thunderstorms across the Bay Area beginning late Wednesday and lasting through Thursday.

In an advisory Tuesday, forecasters said widespread wind gusts of 35 to 50 mph are likely, with stronger gusts possibly exceeding 60 mph along the coast, mountain ridges, and passes. The weather service issued a High Wind Warning for some coastal areas north of the Golden Gate, where gusts may reach 65 mph, making travel difficult for high-profile vehicles and possibly downing trees or power lines.