The National Weather Service (NWS) in San Francisco has issued a Beach Hazards Statement effective from Wednesday morning through Friday evening for all Pacific Coast beaches due to treacherous conditions. Breaking waves of 12 to 16 feet, strong rip currents, and the potential for sneaker waves are expected. Therefore, visitors should exercise caution and maintain a safe distance from the water's edge, as per the NWS San Francisco.
While the sunny weather might be tempting, the NWS warns that the inviting warmth is deceptive, as the ocean remains perilous. The National Weather Service advises everyone to "stay off of waterside infrastructure and never turn your back on the ocean." The persistence of Tule fog in parts of the North and East Bay has been causing visibility issues; for example, the visibility at Livermore and Santa Rosa airports has dropped to less than a mile, with conditions likely to deteriorate further overnight. Despite the fog, areas in full sunshine are experiencing temperatures significantly above normal, complicating temperature forecasts.
Looking ahead, a shift in conditions is expected early next week as per the Area Forecast Discussion by NWS. While light rain is on the horizon, particularly in the North Bay, there is also talk of an atmospheric river potentially impacting the region with heavy precipitation and strong winds from December 18 to 21; the exact details remain uncertain as the prediction center's models are still being developed.
Mariners should also heed warnings: a Small Craft Advisory is in place for certain offshore areas due to fresh northerly breezes and a long-period northwesterly swell that will continue into the weekend, causing particularly choppy waters for smaller vessels. As the weekend approaches, beachgoers and boaters alike are urged to stay informed and prioritize safety amidst the seemingly tranquil yet misleading weather.
