California — Foam surges higher than expected, then retreats fast, pulling sand and balance away in seconds. Along the San Francisco and Monterey coastlines, the ocean looks calm at a glance, but danger builds with each incoming set.
The National Weather Service has issued a Beach Hazards Statement for much of the Bay Area coastline, including San Francisco, Point Reyes, the San Francisco Peninsula, Northern and Southern Monterey Bay, and the Big Sur Coast. The alert remains in effect from Wednesday evening through Friday morning as a long-period westerly swell moves ashore.
Wave energy increases steadily today. Breaking waves may reach up to 19 feet, while strong rip currents and sneaker waves develop near shore. These waves arrive without warning and can surge far beyond the normal surf line. Rocks, jetties, and coastal trails become especially dangerous as water rushes in quickly.
Beachgoers are urged to stay well back from the shoreline. Wet pavement, slick rocks, and sudden wave run-up increase fall risk. Never turn your back on the ocean, and avoid climbing on jetties or rocks. Parents should keep children close and pets leashed, even during sunny breaks.
Weather conditions inland remain mild. Patchy morning fog gives way to partial sunshine today, with highs near the low 60s. Thursday and Friday stay mostly dry and pleasant, which may draw more people to the coast. That contrast increases risk, as calm weather often masks hazardous surf.
By Friday afternoon, wave energy slowly eases, but lingering rip currents remain possible. Some light rain may return late Saturday into Sunday, though beach hazards should gradually improve.
Looking ahead, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook favors near-normal precipitation and above-normal temperatures for California into early February. For now, timing matters most along the coast.
If you’re heading near the water, keep distance and stay alert. Have you noticed unusually strong waves or rip currents today?
Five-Day Outlook – San Francisco, California
- Today: Patchy fog early, mostly sunny, high near 60°F
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 62°F
- Friday: Partly sunny, high near 63°F
- Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 64°F
- Sunday: Chance of rain late, high near 62°F
