Fog, Clouds, and Coastal Mist: A Damp Sunday for San Francisco

A Cool and Cloudy Start

San Franciscans waking up this Sunday morning, January 25, 2026, are greeted by the city’s familiar blanket of gray. Early morning conditions are marked by lingering fog and a damp chill, with temperatures starting around 49°F. Humidity remains relatively high at approximately 68%, making the air feel slightly crisper than the thermometer suggests. If you are heading out for an early morning walk in the Sunset or Richmond districts, expect visibility to be limited in areas prone to heavy coastal mist.

Afternoon Outlook: Overcast with a Hint of Rain

As we move into the afternoon, the thick morning fog is expected to transition into considerable cloudiness across the peninsula. While the city is not bracing for a total washout, the forecast indicates a 10% to 15% chance of patchy rain or light drizzle throughout the day. High temperatures will struggle to reach 57°F, staying well within the cool winter average for late January. Winds are predicted to remain relatively calm, described as light and variable, meaning the wind chill factor will not be a major concern for those visiting the Embarcadero or local parks.

• Morning: 49°F to 51°F with dense fog and high humidity.
• Afternoon: High of 57°F under overcast skies with light, variable winds.
• Precipitation: 10-15% chance of light, patchy drizzle (approx. 0.03 inches).
• Evening: Temperatures dropping to 48°F with clearing cloud cover.

Evening and Overnight Conditions

As the sun sets around 5:26 PM, temperatures will begin a slow descent back toward an overnight low of 47°F. The heavy cloud cover from the afternoon is expected to break slightly, leading to partly cloudy skies by late evening. However, the dampness will persist, and midnight may see the return of patchy fog in low-lying valleys. It is a night suited for light jackets and indoor plans as the mercury dips and the humidity remains high.

Weather Alerts and Regional Context

While San Francisco is largely avoiding the severe conditions of the massive winter storm currently impacting the eastern United States, local residents should still stay alert to local conditions. Reports indicate that recent storm activity in Northern California has brought some flooding concerns to the San Francisco Bay Area. Although today’s rainfall is expected to be minimal, the cumulative dampness from previous systems means that low-lying areas and shorelines may still experience minor drainage issues. Always exercise caution when driving through areas with standing water, especially near tidal waterways.