The Bay Area's coastal residents and visitors are advised to exercise caution as a High Surf Advisory is set to take effect from early this morning until early tomorrow. The National Weather Service in San Francisco has warned of potentially dangerous conditions along the coastline, advising against entering the water due to the heightened risk of hazardous swimming conditions. The advisory comes amidst a colder and wetter pattern expected to persist through the week.
The advisory will be in place from 6 AM PST Tuesday through 6 AM PST Wednesday, as noted by NWS Bay Area. Large waves and strong currents are a serious risk during these conditions, which can pose a direct threat to life and increase the chance of beach erosion and rip currents.
A High Surf Advisory will soon go into effect, from 6 AM this morning through 6 AM Wednesday morning. It is best to remain out of the water to avoid hazardous swimming conditions. #CAwx pic.twitter.com/ZMoJHzKg88
— NWS Bay Area 🌉 (@NWSBayArea) November 12, 2024
Apart from the immediate coastal hazards, the broader weather outlook forecasted by NWS San Francisco calls for a mix of certain sun and clouds today, with a slight increase in temperatures compared to previous days. Nonetheless, the region remains under the influence of an unsettled pattern. Light rain is expected to resume as early as sunrise on Wednesday, particularly in the North Bay area, before spreading south and east throughout the day.
The marine forecast is just as tumultuous, with significant wave heights projected to rise through midweek, reaching 15 to 16 feet in some areas. Mariners are also advised to take heed as multiple Small Craft Advisories are in effect due to the approaching fronts and associated weather systems. These conditions affect seafarers and contribute to the surf situation along the coast.
Residents in southern Monterey County should also brace for notably colder temperatures tonight, with the potential of dense fog developing in isolated areas. The unsettled weather pattern is expected to continue through the weekend, bringing rounds of rainfall across various parts of the region. However, according to the forecast issued by NWS San Francisco, there is low confidence in the specific timings and locations of these showers at this point.