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Senior Staff Writer
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March 13, 2026
The National Weather Service (NWS) declared a “Minor HeatRisk” in the Bay Area now through Sunday, increasing to a “Moderate HeatRisk” from Sunday through Wednesday, as a high-pressure ridge continues to raise temperatures in the Western United States.
The unseasonably warm weather already broke a March daily heat record in San Rafael, and the NWS is expecting more to follow as the heat wave peaks in the middle of next week.
“Our colleagues at the @NWSWPC note that unusual weather patterns will bring summer-like heat to the Bay Area and Central Coast,” wrote NWS Bay Area on X.
🌡️Our colleagues at the @NWSWPC note that unusual weather patterns will bring summer-like heat to the Bay Area and Central Coast. Wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, try to stay out of the sun, and never leave anyone alone in a closed car! #CAwx pic.twitter.com/LdplObOc7W
— NWS Bay Area 🌉 (@NWSBayArea) March 13, 2026
The NWS predicts a sunny weekend with a high of 73°F in San Francisco on Sunday, just in time for this weekend‘s St. Patrick’s Day parade and Giants FanFest at Oracle Park. Temps will increase next week until the heatwave peaks at 83°F in SF on Wednesday.
According to the NWS forecast, inland parts of the Bay Area are likely to experience the brunt of the heat wave. High temperatures rise into the high 70s to low 80s this weekend in cities like Concord, Napa, and Fairfield. By next Wednesday, those areas may reach the high 80s to low 90s.
NWS-recommended heat precautions
While many Bay Area locals are sure to welcome the heatwave with beach days and park picnics, the NWS warns people to take care.
“…This time of year, the body isn’t used to dealing with this level of heat, so these highs are more impactful now than they would be in July,” they wrote on X.
🌡️Why are we worried about highs in the 80s and 90s? Because this time of year, the body isn’t used to dealing with this level of heat, so these highs are more impactful now than they would be in July. Learn more about heat safety: https://t.co/nbsNvcS3iy #CAwx pic.twitter.com/KbwJuMfzeg
— NWS Bay Area 🌉 (@NWSBayArea) March 12, 2026
They recommend taking the following precautions this week:
Turn blinds upwards/close blinds during the day
Ensure the ceiling fan direction is counterclockwise
Open windows at night
Drink plenty of water or a sports drink
Do not leave children or pets in unattended vehicles
Reduce activities outdoors and seek shade
Wear sunscreen
Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing
Visit Weather.gov to learn more about heat safety.