San Francisco, California – Unusually cold temperatures could create hazardous conditions across much of the Bay Area and Central Coast early Friday, prompting officials to urge residents to protect vulnerable people, pets, and property.
According to the National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area office, an Extreme Cold Watch is in effect from 1 a.m. to 9 a.m. Friday for coastal and inland communities from the North Bay through the South Bay and down the Central Coast. Overnight temperatures are expected to drop sharply, increasing the risk of hypothermia for people without adequate shelter and warmth.
Cold-sensitive populations, including unhoused individuals, older adults, and those without reliable heating, face the greatest risk during the early morning hours. Pets and livestock may also be affected, and unprotected plants or crops could suffer damage if precautions are not taken. Even typically milder coastal areas, including San Francisco, San Jose, Santa Cruz, and Monterey, may see temperatures cold enough to pose health concerns.
Officials recommend ensuring heaters are working properly, checking on neighbors, and bringing pets indoors. Residents are advised not to use outdoor heaters or grills inside due to carbon monoxide risks and to provide animals with unfrozen water and adequate shelter.
The cold watch highlights the potential for dangerous conditions, and warnings may be issued if confidence increases. Residents should monitor updates from the National Weather Service as the coldest conditions approach early Friday morning.
