The Pacific roars this morning as massive northwest swells slam into the Northern California coastline. From Point Reyes to Big Sur, white water churns against cliffs and piers, sending plumes of spray into the air. It’s beautiful — but deadly. The National Weather Service in San Francisco has issued a Beach Hazards Statement in effect through 10 p.m. Sunday, warning of dangerous surf, strong rip currents, and sneaker waves up to 16 feet high.
Meteorologists caution that these powerful swells can rush much farther up beaches than expected, easily knocking people from rocks, jetties, or even dry sand. “Sneaker waves” arrive suddenly after periods of calm, often without warning. Swimmers, surfers, and beachgoers are urged to stay well back from the waterline and avoid climbing on wet rocks.
Conditions will remain dangerous through the afternoon as a moderate-period northwest swell peaks along the Central and North Bay coasts. Expect breaking waves of 13 to 16 feet and hazardous currents around Ocean Beach, Pacifica, and Point Reyes National Seashore. Rip currents are especially strong near piers and rocky inlets, where currents can sweep even experienced swimmers offshore in seconds.
Winds ease slightly Monday, with calmer seas expected by early Tuesday. However, a smaller reinforcing swell later in the week could renew minor surf hazards heading into the first weekend of December.
Five-Day Outlook (San Francisco, CA):
- Monday: Sunny, high 61°F, low 47°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 61°F, low 48°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 63°F, low 47°F.
- Thursday: Sunny, high 62°F, low 47°F.
- Friday: Sunny, high 62°F, low 48°F.
