San Francisco Bay Area residents, brace yourselves for turbulent waters and a windy, wet weekend. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a High Surf Advisory in effect until 7 PM PST today, warning of powerful waves 15-20 feet high that increase the risk of sneaker waves and rip currents. People are advised to avoid jetties and beaches, as unexpected waves could sweep onlookers into the ocean NWS Forecast.
Adding to the coastal mayhem, light rain is set to return to the region, with rainfall not exceeding 0.33 inches in the coastal ranges and less than 0.15 inches elsewhere, causing slick roads and extending your commute time. "Breezy winds" are also on the menu for this afternoon and evening, per the NWS Bay Area's X post. Gale Warnings now stretch from Point Pinos to Point Piedras Blancas outside of Monterey Bay, with the NWS highlighting that "Strong winds will cause hazardous seas which could capsize or damage vessels and reduce visibility" in advisories posted online Advisories.
Light rain returns to the region today. While rain totals should be under 0.33" in the coastal ranges and 0.15" or less elsewhere, watch out for wet roadways and give yourself some extra commute time. Breezy winds are also expected during the afternoon and evening. #CAwx pic.twitter.com/W7XXdaRvbZ
— NWS Bay Area 🌉 (@NWSBayArea) January 6, 2024
The NWS forecasts a quick-moving system will bring rain showers to the Bay Area by early afternoon, segueing into the Central Coast by late afternoon/evening. Interior areas are slapped with Frost Advisories as the mercury is expected to plummet into the low to mid-30s Area Forecast Discussion. As if on cue, the frosty weekend will give rise to a couple of weak systems midweek, with unsettled conditions predicted to persist.
Danger looms beyond the coastlines, and Small Craft Advisories and Gale Warnings extend to mariners. The Conditions escalate to gale-force Sunday morning, with winds around 25 knots, gusting up to 35 knots, churning up rough seas 15-16 feet tall. Mariners are advised to "Remain in port, seek safe harbor, alter course, and/or secure the vessel for severe conditions," as stated in the latest NWS warnings Watches, Warnings or Advisories for California.
