Unusually cold temperatures are expected to produce hazardous conditions across most of the Bay Area and Central Coast early Friday, prompting officials to warn citizens to protect vulnerable people, pets, and property.
According to the National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area office, an Extreme Cold Watch is in force from 1 a.m. to 9 a.m. Friday for coastal and inland communities from the North Bay to the South Bay and down the Central Coast. Overnight temperatures are predicted to plummet, raising the risk of hypothermia for those without proper shelter and warmth.
Cold-sensitive populations, such as the homeless, the elderly, and those without reliable heating, are most vulnerable during the early morning hours. Pets and cattle may also be harmed, and unprotected plants or crops may sustain damage if safeguards are not taken. Even the normally milder coastal areas, such as San Francisco, San Jose, Santa Cruz, and Monterey, may have temperatures chilly enough to cause health issues.
Officials advise ensuring heaters are operational, checking on neighbors, and bringing pets indoors. Residents are warned not to use outside heaters or grills indoors due to carbon monoxide hazards, and to provide animals with unfrozen water and enough shelter.
The cold watch underlines the possibility of severe conditions, and warnings may be issued if confidence rises. Residents should keep an eye on National Weather Service bulletins as chilly weather approaches early Friday morning.
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