As the Bay Area gears up for an unexpected warm spell, the National Weather Service San Francisco has issued a statement cautioning residents about the hazardous beach conditions anticipated from Sunday through Tuesday. According to NWS San Francisco, Pacific Coast beaches face an increased risk of sneaker waves and rip currents despite the land experiencing warm temperatures. In their Beach Hazards Statement, they remind the public that the ocean remains unforgivingly cold at this time of the year, with water temperatures lingering between 51 and 57 degrees.
Simultaneously, NWS San Francisco's latest Area Forecast Discussion notes a climb in on-land temperatures with "Minor HeatRisk expected across urban portions of the Bay Area and Central Coast." Although today’s highs may not break records, the uptick in temperatures is enough to pose a danger to individuals particularly sensitive to heat. Urban areas within the Bay, Salinas Valley, and the Monterey Peninsula were singled out for minor HeatRisk, prompting advisories to stay hydrated and take breaks when needed.
Looking ahead to Monday and Tuesday, the ridge pressure builds, and interior temperatures are set to rise even further. Some areas are forecasted to reach the mid to upper 80s, while coastal temperatures might hit the 70s to low 80s. With 850 mb temperatures hovering around the 95th percentile for this time of year, the possibility of breaking high-temperature records is on the table. Residents are advised to keep cool and take necessary precautions against the heat.
However, the weather pattern is expected to shift midweek, as low-pressure systems are forecast to bring cooler temperatures and potential wet conditions. "The storm door is set to open again midweek," the NWS San Francisco explains, projecting a return to the familiar low to mid-60s and a chance of light rain for the North Bay. Long-term models suggest a wet end to March and begin of April, with 1 to 4 inches of rain likely throughout the region.
Regarding aviation, the temporary flux in weather conditions isn't expected to interfere greatly with visibility. While coastal low clouds or some fog could affect flights later in the evening, VFR conditions should predominantly prevail. Mariners, though, should be vigilant as the NWS has pointed out that moderate to rough seas are expected through Wednesday, with the potential for deterioration and very rough seas by Thursday. Mariners and beachgoers alike are urged to monitor the latest marine and beach forecasts and take heed of safety precautions during this period of fluctuating weather conditions.
