SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – The Pacific is restless again. Large, booming waves are hammering the California coast this morning, part of a long-period northwesterly swell that’s lifting breakers as high as 25 feet in favored spots from Monterey Bay to Point Reyes. Combined with calm, mild air across the Bay Area, the setup is deceptively dangerous — a picture-perfect beach day that can turn deadly in seconds.
According to the National Weather Service in San Francisco, a Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect through late Wednesday night. Sneaker waves and powerful rip currents can surge much farther up the beach than expected, sweeping people into the surf and dislodging logs or debris. Coastal visitors are urged to avoid jetties, inlets, and steep beaches. Even strong swimmers are advised to stay well back from the waterline.
Inland, the Bay Area will stay dry and seasonably mild through Thursday, with highs in the upper 60s to near 70 degrees. Winds pick up slightly Thursday evening ahead of a weak Pacific system expected to arrive Friday. Light rain could begin late Friday into Saturday, mainly north of the Golden Gate, with totals under a half inch.
By the weekend, skies turn partly cloudy with on-and-off coastal drizzle and a noticeable chill. Daytime highs will hover in the mid-60s, and brisk west winds will bring that unmistakable hint of late October’s shift toward wetter weather.
To be fair, it’s a beautiful stretch — but locals know this pattern well. When the surf roars and the breeze turns cool, California’s storm season isn’t far behind.
Five-Day Forecast for San Francisco, CA:
Wed: 67/58 – Partly sunny; large surf, dangerous sneaker waves.
Thu: 67/55 – Mostly sunny; light winds, calm afternoon.
Fri: 69/58 – Increasing clouds; slight chance of light rain late.
Sat: 68/56 – Cloudy with a few showers; breezy at times.
Sun: 66/55 – Partly sunny; cool breeze, chance of drizzle north.
