Bay Area Faces Thunderstorm Threat and Wildfire Risk by Wednesday Morning

San Francisco, CA – The Central Coast of California is experiencing thunderstorms overnight, with the threat expected to extend northward into the Bay Area by Wednesday morning, September 25, 2025. The National Weather Service (NWS) Bay Area issued an alert via social media, stating, "There is a chance for thunderstorms overnight across the Central Coast. This threat will spread north to include the Bay Area by Wednesday morning." This weather pattern marks a significant shift following a period of unseasonably hot temperatures across the region.

Forecasters indicate that the system has already delivered showers to Monterey and San Benito counties, with strong thunderstorms recorded in their southern portions. As the system progresses north, drier conditions in some areas, particularly the East Bay, raise concerns about the possibility of dry lightning. The NWS emphasized, "With the lack of rain, any dry lightning strikes bring a chance for wildfire ignition."

This weather event comes after the Bay Area experienced some of its hottest temperatures of the year earlier in the week. The shift is expected to bring significantly cooler temperatures compared to Tuesday, with highs ranging from the 70s along the coast to the lower 80s inland. The chance for showers and thunderstorms is predicted to persist through Thursday morning.

The current weather system is influenced by the remnants of former Tropical Storm Mario, which is contributing to the unsettled conditions. While the primary concern remains the potential for wildfire ignition from dry lightning, residents are advised to stay updated on local forecasts and advisories from the National Weather Service.