SAN FRANCISCO � (INT) � The so-called �rainy season� may become reality for Northern California before the month is over. It could end the autumn wildfire season and put a dent in the ongoing drought.

Meteorologists say the atmosphere is edging toward several days of moderate to heavy rain in mid-October, stretching from the San Francisco Bay Area to Redding.

Forecasts beyond seven days are difficult to offer much accuracy. But National Weather Service forecaster Roger Gass said, "This looks to be a lot more promising. All the models are suggesting widespread rainfall as we head into that timeframe."

Rain first enters the forecast October 20th and continues into the 26th with a storm system expected to drop down into California from the Pacific Northwest.

The forecast from the Climate Prediction Center, which provides long-term outlooks, said models are suggesting up to 2 inches of rain over three days.

If a wet storm arrives as predicted, the National Weather Service's Climate Prediction Center said it could "quell ongoing wildfire activity, help improve drought conditions ... and replenish water resources throughout the West Coast."
Southern California will be on the fringes of the rainfall, if any.

Story Date: December 22, 2021