SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – A powerful Pacific swell is pounding the California coast this morning, sending thundering surf against sea walls and flooding low-lying roads along the Bay. The National Weather Service has issued both a Coastal Flood Advisory and Beach Hazards Statement for the Bay Area, warning of dangerous waves and possible flooding through Saturday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in San Francisco, long-period westerly swells will drive breaking waves between 14 and 19 feet, with some favored spots near Big Sur and Point Reyes potentially reaching 25 feet. High tides around midday will combine with these strong swells, producing up to 1.2 feet of coastal inundation in vulnerable areas such as Marina Green, Mill Valley, and along Highway 1.
Forecasters caution that sneaker waves could surge farther up the beach than expected, easily sweeping across jetties, piers, and rocks. Residents and visitors are urged to stay well back from the waterline and avoid risky photo ops near the surf. The advisory also notes a heightened risk of strong rip currents, making swimming or wading dangerous through at least Saturday morning.
Those traveling coastal routes — especially Highway 1 and U.S. 101 near Monterey Bay — should be alert for temporary flooding or debris during high tide cycles. City crews in low-lying neighborhoods are monitoring drains and seawalls to limit road closures.
Conditions will slowly ease Saturday afternoon as swells subside, but another series of Pacific systems is expected next week, signaling an active stretch of late-fall weather as California heads toward Thanksgiving travel season.
Five-Day Forecast for San Francisco, CA:
Thu: 66/56 – Breezy; partial clearing later.
Fri: 68/55 – Partly sunny; calmer surf.
Sat: 72/55 – Mostly sunny; coastal winds easing.
Sun: 73/56 – Mild, dry; great outdoor day.
Mon: 70/57 – Patchy fog early; warm afternoon.
