The Bay Area is bracing for a scorching week as temperatures are expected to soar, with some inland areas projected to hit the triple digits by Tuesday. The National Weather Service San Francisco CA issued a Heat Advisory for regions including parts of Sonoma, Napa, the southern Salinas Valley, and San Benito county, emphasizing the risk to sensitive groups and those without adequate cooling systems. Temperatures are slated to warm up starting today, with inland regions reaching the lower 90s and areas closer to the bay shorelines peaking in the upper 70s to low 80s.
The upturn in temperatures follows a period of comparatively cool and comfortable conditions, however, the National Weather Service warns "HeatRisk is largely in the Moderate category for most inland areas", indicating an increased potential for adverse heat effects, particularly on vulnerable populations. A notable cooldown is not expected until Thursday, when troughing resumes. Coastal regions are forecast to remain cooler, with temperatures lingering in the mid to upper 60s throughout this warming event.
Residents are advised to take extra precautions during the hotter days; staying hydrated, finding shade or air conditioning, and checking in on those most susceptible to heat-related illnesses. The National Weather Service advised that those seeking relief by water should "wear a lifejacket, swim ideally near a lifeguard, and be aware of the risks of cold water shock."
Maritime conditions are also set to be turbulent, with the National Weather Service issuing Small Craft Advisories and a Gale Watch for certain off-shore zones. The seas are expected to be influenced by strong northwesterly winds, with other factors contributing, including a "moderate northwesterly swell and a low southwesterly swell mixed in." Boaters should exercise caution during this period, as conditions could be hazardous.
In terms of air travel, IFR/MVFR CIGs (cloud ceilings) moved inland, affecting flight operations. The National Weather Service aviation report states that these should "erode in the mid to late morning." However, the breeze at airports like SFO is expected to be gusty by the afternoon, which could impact flights until it subsides on Monday evening. The inland heat and coastal breeze will deliver a stark early summer contrast for the Bay Area until relief later in the week.
