San Francisco woke up under a thick marine layer this morning, with temperatures stuck in the mid-50s along the coast and in the upper-60s around the Bay. The low clouds are set to peel back each afternoon, delivering mostly sunny skies later in the day but keeping the city noticeably cooler than the inland valleys. If you have waterfront plans lined up for later in the week, brace for a shift: long-period swells will make Pacific beaches much more dangerous starting Tuesday.
Foggy Mornings, Sunny Afternoons
A persistent marine layer will keep fog and low clouds in place overnight and into the morning hours, holding lows near 55 to 56°F and daytime highs around 69°F today, for much of the city, while inland areas run warmer. West to southwest winds of 5 to 12 mph will pick up in the afternoons, and gusts could reach 20 to 25 mph through gaps and in the northern Salinas Valley. Layer up for the morning commute and expect a gradual transition to sunshine later in the afternoon.
Hazardous Surf And Beaches
According to the National Weather Service, a Beach Hazards Statement is in effect for Pacific-facing beaches beginning tomorrow and continuing through Friday afternoon, because of a long-period southwest swell. That swell can generate sneaker waves and strong rip currents, and breaking waves up to 10 feet are possible on exposed shores. The advice is simple but serious: stay off jetties, piers, and rocks, and avoid entering the water. Small craft advisories will also be possible tomorrow and Wednesday as seas build.
When It Warms
Temperatures begin to climb by midweek, with highs near 71°F on Wednesday, then nudging into the low to mid 70s by Thursday. Inland valleys will feel the heat more, with temperatures reaching the 80s to low 90s, and isolated triple-digit readings in the warmest parts of southern Monterey County. The coast, by contrast, will retain the cool, breezy feel in the mornings and evenings. If you are chasing actual warmth, time your outdoor plans for the sunnier afternoon hours.
How To Plan
Stick to beaches with lifeguards, give yourself plenty of space from the break line, and never turn your back on the ocean, even on a seemingly calm day. For boating and other coastal outings, check marine forecasts and advisories before you head out and follow instructions from county lifeguards and harbor patrols.
