As we approach the mid-July mark, San Francisco's cool summer continues, with the National Weather Service San Francisco forecasting persistently below seasonal temperatures through Thursday. However, a slight rise in the thermometer is expected starting Friday, ushering in a modest warming trend into the weekend. Locals might recall last July's swelter, a stark contrast to the cooler days we've been experiencing this season.
The National Weather Service has identified a localized elevated fire weather threat in the hills, as the heights above 2,000 feet are notably dry and mild. "Despite some inland sunshine temperatures will still be seasonably cool for July with highs reaching the upper 50s to near 70 for the coast and 60s to lower 90s inland -- or about 5 to 10 degrees below normal for July," detailed the NWS San Francisco update. The outlook for Thursday night into Friday doesn't stray far, calling for a continuation of marine layer presence and some patchy coastal drizzle.
Fire safety stands at the forefront of concerns, with NWS keeping a close watch on the risks above the marine layer. "Dry and mild conditions remain at 2000 feet and above with temperatures in the 60s to lower 70s with poor humidity less than 30%," reported NWS San Francisco. The chilling effect of the marine layer ensures that, on the ground, the San Francisco Bay Area remains cloaked in its iconic foggy embrace, potentially dampening coastal areas with patchy drizzle in the wee Thursday morning hours.
Flight operations throughout the region are experiencing an impact due to prevalent MVFR/IFR CIGs, causing visibility challenges. "Widespread MVFR/IFR CIGs are affecting the region with light winds," the NWS San Francisco noted. Meanwhile, the marine forecast anticipates light to moderate winds through the weekend, though small craft advisories come into effect Friday, indicating tricky conditions especially through the Golden Gate and into the Delta as gusty winds pick up pace.
For those hitting the waters, caution is advised. According to the NWS San Francisco, "Gusty winds, potentially hazardous to small craft, develop each afternoon and evening through the Golden Gate and into the Delta as well as the favored coastal jets along Pigeon Point and Big Sur." In summary, whether you're inland seeking relief from the unusual chill or navigating the coast's gusty conditions, it's best to stay abreast of the latest weather updates to adjust your plans accordingly.
