San Francisco woke up to mostly clear skies and a brisk 52°F today, with sunshine expected to nudge afternoon temperatures to a high near 63°F. West winds will ramp up through the afternoon, setting up a breezy commute with gusts into the upper teens. Low clouds or fog along the peninsula should clear out by mid-morning, opening the door to a bright, sunny afternoon.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
Look for west to west-northwest winds this afternoon, generally 6 to 12 mph with gusts up to about 18 to 20 mph late in the day, then easing overnight, according to the National Weather Service. Exposed waterfront stretches and hilltops will feel noticeably cooler than more sheltered inland spots. If you have lightweight outdoor gear on decks or balconies, this is a good afternoon to secure anything that might go flying during the evening commute.
Coastal Boaters Should Watch Advisories
Small craft advisories are in effect for large portions of the coastal waters and Monterey Bay this afternoon into midweek, with the most immediate advisory running from 3 PM to 9 PM this evening. Inexperienced mariners and kayak operators are urged to stay close to shore, and ferry riders should be ready for choppy crossings.
Looking Ahead
Temperatures are expected to climb a bit later in the week, with highs returning to the upper 60s by Friday and Saturday before another pattern shift moves in. Confidence is growing for more widespread, beneficial rain beginning Sunday and continuing into early next week, a change from the mainly dry stretch earlier this week, according to the National Weather Service. If you are planning to be outside this weekend, count on a warm, sunny Friday but keep a backup plan ready for showers as the week wraps up.
Bottom line: dress for the classic San Francisco two-step of cool, foggy mornings and sunny, breezy afternoons. Boaters should double-check the latest marine statements before leaving the harbor, and commuters on exposed bridges may want to allow a little extra time for a gusty evening drive.
