'Month's worth of rain' could hit Bay Area this week: Here's when it starts

Atmospheric river brings potential for significant rainfall as drought lingers

After a mostly dry January, a series of storms are expected to bring a "month's worth of rain" to the Bay Area this week, according to the National Weather Service. The first storm is expected to arrive late Monday night or early Tuesday morning, and could bring heavy rain and gusty winds. Additional storms are expected to follow through the week, with the heaviest rainfall expected from Wednesday night into Thursday.

What to expect from the storms

The storms are expected to bring widespread rainfall, with some areas receiving up to 10 inches of rain. The heaviest rain is expected in the North Bay and East Bay hills. The storms could also bring gusty winds, with speeds of up to 50 mph possible. There is also a chance of thunderstorms, especially during the heavier storms. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for the Bay Area, as the heavy rains could lead to flooding in low-lying areas.

How to prepare for the storms

There are a few things you can do to prepare for the storms:

• Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent flooding.
• Secure loose outdoor furniture and other objects.
• Have a plan in place in case of power outages.
• Be aware of the flood risk in your area and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.

Drought lingers despite upcoming storms

Despite the upcoming storms, the Bay Area is still in a drought. The storms are expected to bring some relief, but they are not expected to end the drought. The National Weather Service says that the Bay Area will need several more storms to bring the region out of drought.