Storm system to bring threat of thunderstorms, showers, hail, windy weather to Bay Area this weekend

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Cooler, windy, wet weather will bring an "abrupt change" to the Bay Area forecast after a dry start to rainy season, according to ABC7 Meteorologist Mike Nicco.

On Friday, the Bay Area will be hit with a 1 on the Storm Impact Scale, bringing a chance of showers and thunderstorms across the region.

"It's going to be a wet one for some of us," said Nicco.

Nicco says a "light" 1 on the Storm Impact Scale means not everybody is going to get wet, but if you do, "there's the possibility of lightning, hail, some brief downpours and even some gusty winds."


Gusts topping 30 to 50 miles per hour are possible.

In fact, "the closer you are to the coast, the more likely you're going to see and experience thunderstorms," said Nicco.

Neighborhoods within about 30 miles from coast will be under the threat of thunderstorms from 4 a.m. Friday until 4 a.m. Saturday.

Future Radar shows scattered showers are possible early Friday during the morning commute, "so watch out for some slick spots. You'll definitely notice the breezes," said Nicco.

"As we head into noon, afternoon and early evening hours the cold core, the greatest amount of energy comes through, and that's when we could have our thunderstorms," explained Nicco.

He says expect a little bit of a lull as we head through Saturday.

Lingering showers are possible Sunday with a "better chance of some much needed snow in the Sierra," added Nicco.

RELATED: Fall storms could bring Bay Area rain, Sierra snow this weekend, forecast shows

So, how much rain can we expect?

"Rainfall amounts are going to be all over the place because of the scattered nature," said Nicco. It's possible some of us will pick up a couple hundredths of an inch to even a third of an inch.


RELATED STORIES & VIDEOS:

• VIDEO: Watch the latest AccuWeather forecast


• How to prepare your home for winter storms


• TIPS: How do you recover from hydroplaning?




• TIPS: Here's how to use sandbags and prevent flooding


• Planning a snow trip? Check out these Sierra driving tips from the pros


• How to drive safely in snow


• Tips to help you drive in dense fog


• Tips for staying safe while hitting the slopes