San Francisco rolled in today under cool, mostly clear skies, with wake-up temps near 49°F at local observation sites. Sunshine is expected to take over quickly, pushing the city into the mid-60s this afternoon, with inland neighborhoods running warmer through the week. At the same time, gusty northwest winds will kick up along exposed shorelines this afternoon and evening, and conditions in the outer offshore waters will turn hazardous.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
According to the National Weather Service, gusty west to northwest winds will build along the coast and North Bay this afternoon, with small craft advisories and gale warnings posted for offshore waters through the evening. Mariners are being warned to expect very rough seas in the outer waters and frequent gale-force gusts near Point Reyes, while shoreline drivers and high-profile vehicles are urged to use extra caution on exposed bridge approaches. Onshore winds are forecast to peak this afternoon, then generally ease after sunset, though mariners are advised to keep up with the latest marine products and advisories.
Warm Spell Builds Midweek
A strong ridge will take over tomorrow, sending highs into the low to mid 70s across much of San Francisco, with even warmer readings inland. The warm pattern strengthens through the weekend, with highs near 76°F on Thursday, climbing into the upper 70s and low 80s inland by Saturday and Sunday, and reaching about 80°F on Monday, March 16. Forecasters are calling out a Minor Heat Risk beginning Wednesday and running through Saturday, with areas of Moderate Heat Risk becoming more likely by Sunday into early next week. Standard heat precautions are recommended during the warmest part of the afternoon.
Boaters, Commuters and Outdoor Plans
If your plans involve the water, it may be time to rethink them. Mariners and small-boat operators are urged to avoid exposed waters while warnings are in effect, and drivers should stay alert for crosswinds on bridge approaches during the peak gust period. Our March 4 coverage dug into the early wind threat in greater detail; see this look at the marine and ferry impacts for more background. Near the shore, mornings will remain cool while afternoons warm up quickly, so layers will be your friend for trips to the Embarcadero or Ocean Beach.
Plan Ahead
Sunny, dry weather is expected to hold through much of next week, making it a good time to schedule outdoor errands for the morning or late afternoon and to carry water during peak heat. Boat operators should stay tuned to marine forecasts and hold off on trips until advisories are lifted, and anyone planning time on exposed beaches or the bay should keep an eye on local updates as conditions evolve.
