Bay Area beachgoers, take heed. The National Weather Service (NWS) in San Francisco has issued a High Surf Advisory effective Friday night through early Sunday morning. Coastal areas can expect large breaking waves reaching heights of 18 to 22 feet, posing significant risk to those visiting the beaches. This advisory excludes Northern Monterey Bay, where a Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect for the same duration, warning of a moderate to high risk of sneaker waves.
This warning comes off the back of a dry weekend period, as indicated by the NWS San Francisco's Area Forecast Discussion. Temperatures are expected to be cooler today, hovering just shy of 60 degrees amidst lingering clouds. The pattern shifts on Sunday, as temperatures are set to rise roughly 5 degrees higher under sunnier conditions, marking the beginning of a warming trend. A spokesperson for NWS San Francisco noted the shift, stating, "Sunday will start a trend toward warmer temperatures that will extend well into the upcoming work week."
Looking ahead, the long-term forecast suggests a continuation of dry weather, with temperatures potentially soaring above normal toward the end of next week. As the NWS further detailed, "ridging amplifies across the West Coast," residents should prepare for a system dubbed an 'inside slider' which will bring dry, warm, and windy conditions as it moves through California from Monday night into early Wednesday. These weather patterns could reignite concerns over fire weather, a not-so-distant memory for Californians, despite recent rainfall that has somewhat lessened regional fire dangers.
According to the NWS, VFR conditions are expected to dominate aviation operations for those up in the air. The forecast calls for quiet weather patterns with ample high clouds across the region. Nevertheless, local fog may impact airports like KSTS through Sunday morning before returning to clearer skies. Travelers and pilots should maintain vigilance, as these conditions can shift with the region's dynamic weather patterns.
To mariners, the advisory offers a cautionary note through Sunday morning. Small craft should anticipate rough seas with wave heights ranging from 12 to 13 feet as westerly swells make their presence known. NWS recommends that all crafts heed the turbulent conditions before setting sail. As the swell subsides later on Sunday, those at sea might find a reprieve before conditions intensify again throughout the week.
On beaches, those seduced by the ocean's serene façade should remember the latent power beneath. Sneaker waves are a deceptive danger even on seemingly calm days.
