The National Weather Service San Francisco CA issued an updated beach hazards statement at 4:19 p.m. Thursday that remains in effect for San Francisco County until Friday at 5 p.m. The advisory warns of elevated risk to anyone on or near the shoreline.
What residents should expect
Authorities say a long-period southwest swell will raise the chance of sneaker waves and strong rip currents, and that higher tides combined with thermal expansion and sea level rise will bring modest increases in water levels at high tide.
"Long period SW swell will bring an increased risk of sneaker waves and strong rip currents,"
The NWS also cautioned that dangerous surf may produce large breaking waves and that high-tide flooding could affect lots, parks and some roads, with only isolated road closures expected. Officials urged people to stay off jetties, piers and rocks, remain out of the water, and to never turn their back on the ocean.
- Avoid waterfront infrastructure such as jetties and piers.
- Do not enter the water; rip currents and sneaker waves are hazardous.
- Allow extra travel time and do not drive around barricades or through standing water.
Tide forecasts and sea level context
The statement includes specific high-tide projections at the San Francisco tidal gauge and notes that these predictions account for both astronomical tides and roughly 3–6 inches of additional water attributed mainly to thermal expansion and accumulated sea level rise since the tidal datum was established (1983–2001).
| Date | Forecast above normal | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 7/9 | 1.1 ft (6.9 ft MLLW) | 7:25 p.m. |
| 7/10 | 1.3 ft (7.1 ft MLLW) | 8:17 p.m. |
| 7/11 | 1.6 ft (7.4 ft MLLW) | 9:11 p.m. |
| 7/12 | 1.7 ft (7.5 ft MLLW) | 10:06 p.m. |
| 7/13 | 1.7 ft (7.5 ft MLLW) | 11:01 p.m. |
| 7/14 | 1.6 ft (7.4 ft MLLW) | 11:55 p.m. |
| 7/16 | 1.3 ft (7.1 ft MLLW) | 12:48 a.m. |
The NWS noted high tide timing can vary up to 90 minutes earlier or later along the Pacific Coast and through the San Francisco Bay. It advised those who must travel to plan for delays and to take steps to protect flood-prone property.
Local agencies and the NWS emphasize two safety points for San Francisco residents: keep a safe distance from the water’s edge and obey all posted closures and barricades. For updates, consult the National Weather Service San Francisco CA and local emergency management channels.
