The Petaluma Gap is a distinctive geographical region situated in Sonoma County, California, stretching eastward in a broad band from the Pacific Ocean to San Pablo Bay.
Geographical Location and Characteristics
This unique area is an expanse of low land nestled within the coast ranges of the northern San Francisco Bay Area. It serves as a crucial corridor, allowing marine air to flow inland, significantly influencing the local climate and agricultural conditions.
Key characteristics of the Petaluma Gap include:
- Primary Location: Sonoma County, California
- Extent: It forms a wide band extending from the Pacific Ocean in the west to San Pablo Bay in the east.
- Topography: Described as an area of low land, specifically within the complex coast ranges.
- Regional Context: Part of the greater northern San Francisco Bay Area.
- Dimensions: The gap measures approximately 22 to 31 miles (35 to 50 kilometers) in width.
This precise location and its broad, low-lying nature are what define the Petaluma Gap, making it a notable feature in California's geography.
