A series of storms fueled by an atmospheric river is taking aim at the Bay Area, intensified by a so-called "bomb cyclone" that promises heavy rain and potential flooding.

The first atmospheric river storm of the season is forecast to slam into Northern California starting Wednesday, a powerful system expected to bring the rainiest weather to the Bay Area in nearly nine months.

The first notable atmospheric river of the season is due to impact Northern California this week and could bring heavy rain and flood risk to the Bay Area, according to the National Weather Service. The weather system is due to arrive mid-week with the heaviest impact expected in the North Bay.