San Francisco, California – Beachgoers along the Central California coast should use extra caution this weekend as long-period swell generated by Hurricane Fausto continues to create dangerous ocean conditions despite otherwise tranquil weather.
According to the National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area/Monterey, a Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect due to southerly swell arriving from Hurricane Fausto in the eastern Pacific. The swell is expected to increase the risk of dangerous sneaker waves, strong rip currents and unexpectedly powerful surf along portions of the California coastline.
The greatest impacts are expected at west- and south-facing beaches from the San Francisco Peninsula through Monterey Bay and the Central Coast. Even experienced swimmers, surfers and anglers can be caught off guard by waves that surge much farther up the beach than normal. Rocky shorelines, jetties and coastal trails near the surf zone may also become hazardous.
Meanwhile, forecasters are monitoring Tropical Storm Genevieve, which is developing farther south over the eastern Pacific and is expected to strengthen beyond Fausto’s intensity while remaining well offshore. At this time, the primary impact to California continues to be elevated surf generated by tropical systems over the Pacific rather than direct tropical weather.
Anyone visiting area beaches should stay well back from the water’s edge, avoid climbing on rocks or jetties, and never turn their back on the ocean. Cold Pacific waters can quickly become life-threatening if someone is swept into the surf.
Additional beach hazard statements or updates may be issued as ocean conditions evolve through the weekend.
