San Francisco, California – Boaters along the Northern California coast are being urged to stay ashore as gale-force winds batter the region’s waters through Sunday night, creating hazardous conditions from Point Arena to Point Piedras Blancas.
According to the National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area office, gale warnings are in effect from 9 a.m. Saturday until 9 p.m. Sunday, with sustained winds of 30 to 35 mph and gusts reaching up to 50 mph. The warning zone stretches up to 60 nautical miles offshore, impacting key marine points like Half Moon Bay, Point Reyes, and Monterey.
The strong winds are expected to whip up dangerous seas, with wave heights capable of capsizing smaller vessels, damaging boats, and reducing visibility. Mariners in the region should consider delaying travel and securing gear, especially near buoys 46012, 46013, and 46239, where open-ocean exposure increases the threat.
These conditions follow a pattern of early May wind events in the region and may mark one of the more significant marine wind hazards of the season. Officials warn that even experienced boaters could encounter life-threatening conditions.
The gale warning remains in effect through Sunday evening, with updates available at weather.gov/mtr/marine. Additional advisories could be issued if wind speeds remain elevated into Monday.
