Bay Area residents can expect a dynamic weather pattern over the next few days. The National Weather Service in San Francisco, CA, has forecasted everything from dense fog and potential thunderstorms to significant swell heights along the coast. A Dense Fog Advisory is currently in place through 10 AM today for coastal and valley areas, including the San Mateo Peninsula Coast, the Monterey Bay region, and the northern Salinas Valley. Motorists are advised to exercise caution due to reduced visibility.
Rain chances are also on the horizon, "Rain chances return Friday into the weekend, as a low pressure system develops in the Gulf of Alaska and moves into the West Coast," according to the NWS San Francisco, with the most precipitation expected in the North Bay area, despite some uncertainty in the forecast. But before the rain, there's the potential for "isolated thunderstorms" which might occur Tuesday night through Wednesday, posing primarily risks of lightning and gusty winds, the Bay Area southward is where this activity could emerge, it's recommended when thunder roars to go indoors.
Maritime conditions are also noteworthy. A Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect through 3 AM Thursday for all Pacific Coast beaches, with a northwesterly swell resulting in breaking waves of 12 to 17 feet and an increased risk for sneaker waves and rip currents. At popular and powerful surf spots like Mavericks, the swell may reach up to or exceed 20 to 25 feet Tuesday night into Wednesday. Beachgoers should exercise extra caution and never turn their back on the ocean.
Regarding aviation and marine activities, the Area Forecast Discussion by the NWS details that "Fog and low stratus have moved northward along the coastal areas past the Golden Gate, coming inland across the Monterey Bay region," affecting visibility for those at sea. The San Francisco International Airport may experience a gentle west-northwest breeze in the afternoon and evening with light winds overnight. Mariners are cautioned as new northwest swells are expected, with advisory level seas beginning Tuesday night, everyone should be aware and the NWS advises staying abreast of the current developments.
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