Beach Hazards Statements, High Surf Warning and flood advisory as storms hit Los Angeles and San Francisco

California is facing a series of storm systems that are bringing rain, cooler temperatures and dangerous coastal conditions. The National Weather Service has issued beach hazards statements for parts of Southern and Northern California, alongside coastal flood advisories and a high surf warning.

Los Angeles County also faced a flood advisory early Friday, while San Francisco, Big Sur and Southern Monterey Bay are preparing for powerful waves, sneaker waves and possible coastal flooding. Here's a look at the warnings, expected conditions and safety concerns across the state. The inputs are taken from National Weather Service, Pasadena Star News, KCRA, The Sacramento Bee and NBC LA.

Beach Hazards Statement

The National Weather Service San Francisco issued a Beach Hazards Statement covering San Francisco County, Southern Monterey Bay and the Big Sur coast. It remains in effect through Friday afternoon, with breaking waves of 15 to 20 feet, an increased risk of sneaker waves and strong rip currents.

Affected areas include San Francisco County, Coastal North Bay, San Francisco Peninsula Coast, Northern Monterey Bay, Southern Monterey Bay, and the Big Sur Coast.

A coastal flood advisory remains in effect until 4 p.m. Friday. Up to 1.5 feet of flooding above ground level is possible in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways.

The San Francisco tide gauge is expected to reach 7.3 feet at 12:49 p.m. Friday, around 1.5 feet above normal. The forecast includes up to 1.8 feet of additional storm surge.

A High Surf Warning will begin at 6 p.m. Friday and continue until 4 a.m. Sunday. Waves could reach 25 to 35 feet, with occasional sets of 40 to 50 feet at favored breakpoints. Another coastal flood advisory runs from midnight Friday until 6 p.m. Saturday, when waves could wash over seawalls and flood nearby infrastructure.

The NWS warned people to stay out of the water and away from piers, jetties, rocks and other coastal structures. It also advised drivers not to cross flooded roads or move around barricades.

The National Weather Service San Diego issued a beach hazards statement for Orange County and San Diego County coastal areas at 3:02 a.m. Friday. It remained in effect until 8 a.m.

“Cloud to ground lightning expected as a band of thunderstorms moves ashore,” the NWS San Diego CA said.

When Will Rain and Strong Winds Hit California?

Southern California is expected to experience several rounds of rain. The first system arrived late Thursday or early Friday, with another expected late Friday. Scattered showers could continue into Saturday morning. Rainfall from the first systems could reach half an inch in some areas, while temperatures are expected to drop into the 60s and low 70s over the weekend.

NBC Los Angeles meteorologists Belen De Leon and David Biggar warned residents to prepare for wet roads and allow extra travel time. A High Surf Advisory for Los Angeles County beaches and Malibu is expected to bring waves of 4 to 7 feet Friday, rising to 7 to 12 feet Saturday before easing to 6 to 9 feet Sunday through Tuesday.

Sacramento and the surrounding valley also face strong winds and rain. A Wind Advisory is in effect Friday, with south winds gusting between 30 and 40 mph. Steady showers are expected after the morning commute, with heavier rain and possible thunder late in the morning and early afternoon. Rainfall totals could reach half an inch to an inch.

Sacramento residents and city crews have been clearing fallen leaves to prevent blocked drains and street flooding. City spokesperson Jesa David said wet leaves become heavy and can slow collection crews.

What Should Residents Do During Flooding?

The NWS advises people to avoid flooded roads, move to higher ground when necessary and never walk or drive through floodwater. As little as 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock a person off their feet, while 12 inches can carry away most vehicles.

What Is the Los Angeles Weather Forecast?

The NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard issued a flood advisory for Los Angeles County at 3:46 a.m. Friday, effective until 5:45 a.m.

“Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected,” the agency warned, adding that low-lying areas and roads with poor drainage could experience minor flooding.

Three storm systems are expected to move through Southern California, bringing scattered showers and cooler temperatures. Rainfall could reach half an inch in some areas, while temperatures are expected to fall into the 60s and low 70s over the weekend.