25-foot waves, rip currents, sneaker waves possible at Bay Area Beaches this weekend

(KRON) — Powerful 15 to 25-foot waves, rip tides and sneaker waves are forecast to wallop coastal beaches across the greater Bay Area this weekend, the National Weather Service warns.

The dangerous beach conditions will last from 3 a.m. Friday to 3 a.m. Monday. During this time, people are advised to avoid swimming at coastal beaches in the North Bay (including Point Reyes National Seashore), the San Francisco Peninsula, Monterey Bay and Big Sur.

“Sneaker waves can unexpectedly run significantly farther up the beach than normal, including over rocks and jetties,” the NWS beach hazards statement reads. “Rip currents are typically more frequent and stronger in the vicinity of jetties, inlets, and piers. Swimmers should always swim near a lifeguard. Remain out of the water to avoid hazardous swimming conditions and never turn your back on the ocean.”

The atmospheric river forecast to hit the Northwest this weekend will bring little rain to the Bay Area, the latest weather models show. Up to half an inch of rain is forecast to fall across the North Bay between Saturday and Sunday. Roughly 0.10 inches of rain is forecast to fall across the rest of the Bay Area.

“While short lived, most of the rain will come from this first push, the NWS forecast states. “Some of the showers could be heavy, but should be brief. After the cold front moves through there may be a 12 hour break.”

The Pacific Northwest is forecast to receive the brunt of the storm, bringing inches of rain and and mountain snow to the region.