San Francisco, CA – A Gale Warning has been issued for Northern California coastal waters Friday afternoon through early Saturday morning, bringing hazardous conditions for mariners from Point Arena to Pigeon Point.
According to the National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area, a Small Craft Advisory is already in effect until 3 p.m. Friday, followed by a Gale Warning from 3 p.m. Friday until 3 a.m. Saturday. A second Small Craft Advisory will remain in place from 3 a.m. Saturday until 3 a.m. Sunday.
Forecasters warn that northwest winds of 20 to 25 knots, with gusts up to 40 knots, are expected along with seas of 8 to 10 feet. These conditions pose a serious risk to smaller vessels and may cause capsizing, damage, or reduced visibility.
The warnings cover waters from Point Arena to Point Reyes, as well as Point Reyes to Pigeon Point, extending 10 to 60 nautical miles offshore. Mariners are advised to stay in port, seek safe harbor, or alter course to avoid the hazardous seas.
The NWS emphasized that mariners should take action now to prepare vessels and avoid traveling during the height of the gale.
