SAN FRANCISCO, California – Dawn breaks under a soft marine haze as the Pacific pushes its full weight toward the coast. The air smells of salt and fog, and the rhythmic crash of waves masks a more dangerous rhythm — one that could surge much farther inland before the weekend ends.
The National Weather Service in San Francisco warns of a Coastal Flood Advisory and Beach Hazards Statement in effect through Saturday afternoon, covering San Francisco, Monterey Bay, and the Big Sur coast. Long-period swells — up to 14 to 19 feet, with peaks near 25 feet — could trigger sneaker waves capable of sweeping people and pets off rocks and beaches without warning.
High tides are also on the rise, with inundation of up to 1.2 feet expected in low-lying shoreline neighborhoods and tidal waterways. Roads near piers and marinas could briefly flood during peak tides, especially around midday Friday and again late Saturday morning. Residents in flood-prone areas should move vehicles to higher ground and avoid driving through standing water.
Despite the flood and surf hazards, inland weather will stay calm and mild. Expect highs in the upper 60s to low 70s Friday and Saturday, under mostly sunny skies once the fog lifts. Sunday warms toward 75°F, offering a pleasant wrap to the weekend before another Pacific system arrives next week, possibly bringing light rain by midweek.
For now, it’s a quintessential Northern California November: fog at dawn, sunshine by noon — and a restless ocean reminding everyone how quickly calm seas can turn.
Five-Day Outlook for San Francisco, CA:
Fri: 68/54 – Patchy fog; mostly sunny later.
Sat: 71/55 – Mostly sunny; coastal flooding risk midmorning.
Sun: 75/57 – Sunny and mild.
Mon: 76/57 – Partly cloudy; light breeze.
Tue (Veterans Day): 72/58 – Patchy fog early; pleasant afternoon.
