California’s coastline looks calm at first glance, but danger moves beneath the surface.
Powerful waves surge toward the San Francisco Bay Area and Monterey Coast this morning, driven by a strong Pacific swell. A Beach Hazards Statement remains active early today, followed by a High Surf Advisory through Saturday evening. Breaking waves reach 17 to 22 feet, with sneaker waves arriving suddenly and without warning.
Strong rip currents churn near shore. These currents pull forcefully away from beaches, even on clear, sunny stretches. Swimmers, surfers, and shoreline walkers face a real risk this morning, especially near jetties and rocky outcrops. Large waves can sweep across sand, rocks, and piers within seconds.
Plan carefully if heading toward the coast. Stay well back from the waterline. Avoid rocks, jetties, and low coastal trails. Never turn your back on the ocean. Conditions may appear manageable, but the energy remains high.
Inland, the story feels calmer. San Francisco starts the day near 57 degrees, with clouds thinning later. Sunshine lifts afternoon temperatures into the mid-60s, creating tempting beach weather that hides the surf danger.
Saturday stays mild, with highs near 63 degrees and areas of patchy fog during the morning. The surf threat continues through the day, gradually easing late Saturday night. By Sunday, wave heights lower, but residual rip currents may linger.
Looking ahead, early next week trends quieter. Clouds increase, and light rain chances return by Monday night into Tuesday. Longer-range signals point to above-normal temperatures across California later next week as winter storms focus farther north.
This is a classic February setup: calm skies, dangerous seas. Are you seeing large breakers or sneaker waves where you are today? Share what conditions look like along your stretch of coast.
Five-Day Outlook – San Francisco, CA
- Today: Sunny inland, dangerous surf. High 66°
- Saturday: Patchy fog early, continued high surf. High 63°
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy, surf easing. High 63°
- Monday: Mostly cloudy, slight rain late. High 62°
- Tuesday: Chance of rain, cooler. High 59°
