California – The ocean looks deceptively calm at first glance, but the danger builds fast along the shoreline today. Long-period swells roll in quietly, then explode into powerful waves that rush far up the sand without warning.
According to the National Weather Service in San Francisco, a Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect through late Thursday night, followed by a High Surf Advisory beginning early Friday. Breaking waves of 14 to 19 feet are expected first, increasing to 17 to 22 feet as stronger surf arrives. Strong rip currents and sneaker waves will persist through Saturday.
Along San Francisco beaches, from Ocean Beach to Baker Beach, conditions can turn dangerous in seconds. Sneaker waves may suddenly sweep across rocks, jetties, and beaches, pulling people into the water. Even experienced swimmers and surfers face heightened risk. Officials urge everyone to stay well back from the shoreline and off coastal rocks.
Farther south, beaches along the San Mateo Coast, Monterey Bay, and Big Sur will see similar hazards. Coastal erosion is possible in exposed areas, and large waves can damage beach infrastructure. Visibility may drop at times as sea spray blows inland, especially during peak surf.
For now, skies stay mostly sunny and temperatures remain mild, hovering in the mid to upper 60s. To be fair, it feels like a perfect beach day on land, which increases the risk of people underestimating ocean conditions. The danger peaks late Thursday into Friday, then slowly eases by Sunday.
Looking ahead, early next week brings increasing clouds and a return of rain chances, which may finally disrupt the powerful swell pattern. Longer-range signals still suggest above-normal temperatures later next week, but ocean hazards remain the main concern through the weekend.
Stay off jetties and rocks, never turn your back on the ocean, and keep children and pets far from the water. Are you seeing rough surf where you are today?
Five-Day Outlook for San Francisco, California
• Today: Sunny, high near 69
• Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 68
• Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 65
• Saturday: Areas of fog early, high near 65
• Sunday: Slight rain chance, high near 63
