San Francisco is waking up today in classic summer mode: mid-50s along the waterfront under a squashed marine layer, while inland neighborhoods clear out and warm up. Highs should top out near 67F with a brisk west-southwest breeze kicking in this afternoon. The coastal strip stays cooler and socked in with fog for much of the day.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
West-southwest winds of 7 to 16 mph, with gusts up to 23 mph, are expected Friday afternoon into the early evening, with the strongest winds roughly between 1 PM and 5 PM. Anyone crossing the bridges or biking exposed routes should be ready for gusty crosswinds and slower, occasionally tense, travel.
Beach Hazards And High Tides
According to the National Weather Service San Francisco, a long-period southwest swell is driving an elevated risk of sneaker waves and strong rip currents through this afternoon, and a Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect through next Thursday. Tide forecasts call for several nights with water 1 to 1.7 feet above normal, enough to bring minor flooding to parking lots, parks and low-lying shoreline roads. The guidance is simple and worth following: stay off jetties, piers and rocks, stay out of the water, and never turn your back on the ocean.
Boaters, Beachgoers And Drivers
Ferry riders, small-boat operators and anyone hanging out near the surf should expect large breaking waves and strong currents. On land, drivers are urged to avoid flooded, low-lying roads and to resist the temptation to drive around barricades if closures are posted.
Looking Ahead
High pressure builds into next week, warming interior spots into the 80s and low 90s with a Moderate heat risk by next Monday and cooler conditions holding along the coast. There is a low-confidence chance of thunderstorms Sunday into Monday. If storms do manage to fire, they could bring lightning and gusty outflow winds, so it is worth keeping an eye on updated forecasts and local advisories.
Plan Before You Go
Before heading to the shore tonight or over the weekend, check the latest National Weather Service San Francisco forecast and any local closure notices. Give beaches and low-lying parks extra space during high tides, and secure loose gear so the blustery winds do not turn it into airborne decor.
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