At 4:43 AM today, San Francisco International Airport was reporting mostly cloudy skies and a cool 55°F. A stubborn marine layer is set to keep shoreline spots chilly and fogged in through the morning, while inland valleys climb into the 70s and 80s. In the city, expect afternoon highs near 64°F, with some clearing and a west-southwest breeze.
Beach Danger Through This Afternoon
A Beach Hazards Statement from the National Weather Service is in effect through 5 PM today, warning that a long-period southerly swell is boosting the risk of sneaker waves and strong rip currents along Pacific Coast beaches. South- and southwest-facing spots, including Ocean Beach, are especially at risk from waves that can suddenly surge far up the sand.
To avoid getting swept in, officials urge people to stay off jetties, piers, and rocks and to remain out of the water while hazardous surf conditions persist, according to NWS San Francisco.
Afternoon Winds and Temperatures
In San Francisco this afternoon, west-southwest winds are expected to run 6 to 14 mph with gusts up to about 18 mph. Winds are forecast to strengthen later in the week, with gusts up to 24 mph tomorrow and 25 to 35+ mph in more exposed locations on Friday and Saturday.
Temperatures in the city should hold in the low to mid 60s, with inland neighborhoods running several degrees warmer. Boaters and anyone with gear outside should secure loose items and look over marine forecasts before heading out.
Foggy Mornings, Sunny Afternoons
Low stratus is expected to push inland overnight, then thin and retreat through the morning, delivering the usual mix of cool, gray beaches and brighter afternoons farther inland. Ceilings are likely to return overnight into Thursday morning, so plan on another cool, cloudy start to the day tomorrow.
Coastal commuters may want to allow a little extra time in the early hours in case visibility drops.
What To Do
If a beach day was on your schedule today, officials say to hold off until the Beach Hazards Statement expires. Sneaker waves can knock people down without warning, and rip currents are running strong.
Forecasters expect the southerly swell to ease tonight into the latter half of the week, then build again over the weekend, so anyone with coastal plans should keep an eye on updated alerts.
