San Francisco, Calif. – Visitors to Bay Area beaches on Sunday should stay alert as a long-period swell brings dangerous surf and increased risk of sneaker waves, especially near Monterey and along the Pacific Coast.
According to the National Weather Service in San Francisco, a minor-level surf hazard is in effect today as of 5:15 a.m. PDT, with strong currents and sudden wave surges posing risks for beachgoers. The combination of an energetic swell and shifting tides could lead to unpredictable waves capable of sweeping people into the ocean without warning.
Sneaker waves are especially dangerous because they often follow periods of calm and may surge far up the beach, pulling swimmers or bystanders into cold, turbulent water. Popular beach destinations such as Ocean Beach in San Francisco, Half Moon Bay, and Carmel are within the affected zone.
Safety officials urge residents and tourists alike to never turn their backs on the ocean, swim only near lifeguards, and avoid venturing too close to the waterline — even on seemingly calm days.
Hazardous surf conditions are expected to persist through Sunday evening, with additional advisories possible depending on wave activity and tide changes.
