Bay Area/ San Francisco

Wind Tunnel City: Bay Gusts Whip San Francisco On Thursday

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Published on June 25, 2026
Wind Tunnel City: Bay Gusts Whip San Francisco On ThursdaySource: Supercarwaar, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

San Francisco rolled in today under a cool, cloud-damp blanket, with temperatures sitting in the mid-50s along the waterfront and low-60s farther inland. The afternoon high should land near 68°F, but it will feel cooler as onshore winds crank up through the day.

Afternoon Winds Pick Up

Winds will build from the west-southwest, with sustained speeds of 7 to 16 mph and gusts into the low-20s by late afternoon. Temperatures are expected to slip back into the mid-60s later in the day. Airport terminals and exposed bridges could turn gusty during the evening commute, so expect a noticeably breezy ride if you are crossing the Golden Gate or Bay Bridge. Plan ahead and secure loose outdoor items, according to NWS San Francisco.

Marine And Boater Concerns

A Small Craft Advisory covers parts of the northern Bay, including waters north of the Bay Bridge, from 3 PM today through 3 AM Saturday; Monterey Bay and other coastal areas will see advisories at different times. Expect choppy seas, gusty onshore winds, and an increased risk for strong rip currents near the surf line. Mariners and swimmers should check the NWS marine forecast and the NOAA tide gauge before heading out.

Friday Into The Weekend

An upper-level trough moves in tomorrow, deepening the marine layer and trimming back temperatures. Spotty drizzle and light showers are possible tomorrow night into Saturday morning. Gusts are expected to peak tomorrow and Saturday, with mountain passes and wind-prone gaps potentially seeing 50–60 mph gusts, conditions that could make ridge roads and other exposed routes hazardous. 

Morning Fog, Sunny Afternoons

The marine layer should retreat close to the immediate coastline by midday, leaving inland neighborhoods mostly sunny while the coast holds onto cooler air. Low clouds are likely to redevelop late tonight and persist through tomorrow morning, and Saturday will be the coolest day, with 50s near the water and 60s to low-70s inland. A light jacket is still a smart move for waterfront plans and for those classic micro-climate swings across the city.

What To Do Today

If you commute across exposed bridges, drive high-profile vehicles, or plan to be on the water, give yourself extra time and keep anything that could blow away tied down or brought inside. Check current watches and advisories before heading out, and follow local port and lifeguard guidance if you are spending time near the coast.