Santa Cruz weekend weather outlook: Beach hazards kick in, showers roll out
Quick Take
Powerful waves will kick in Friday along Santa Cruz County beaches as showers move out and chilly temperatures settle in before a warming trend next week, the National Weather Service is reporting. Midweek temperatures could hit 70-plus.
Powerful waves and winds will kick in along Santa Cruz County and other Northern California beaches this morning as showers move out and chilly temperatures settle in before a warming trend next week, the National Weather Service is reporting.
Forecasters this morning issued a “beach hazards statement” that’s set to run between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. on Friday.
“Expect an increasing risk of large breaking waves, strong rip currents and sneaker waves by late morning into tonight,” forecasters wrote, adding that surfing and swimming conditions will be treacherous, people should avoid fishing from rocks or jetties, and that “people walking along the beach should never turn their back to the sea.”
As the waves roll in, scattered showers are expected to clear out by late afternoon. Friday’s high throughout Santa Cruz County is expected to be around 60, with colder conditions expected both Friday and Saturday nights.
“At this time, it looks like most areas will stay above freezing, but some of the colder wind sheltered spots could potentially dip to freezing,” forecasters wrote. “Frost cannot be ruled out, but [we] do not think it will be widespread, given a light north wind.”
Daytime temperatures are expected to hover around 60 through the weekend. A gradual warming and drying trend will develop through midweek. Daytime temperatures could even warm into the upper-60s to mid-70s by Wednesday.