Bay Area bakes in Labor Day weekend heat wave; First responders warn of dangerous rip currents at beaches

The heat is on this Labor day weekend, and that’s sending thousands flocking to Bay Area beaches seeking some relief.

But with the gorgeous weather, comes a warning from first responders about a rip currents all weekend.

“We’re trying to spend one of the few beach days we get,” said Michael Levin.

Levin knows warm days like this don’t happen very often at Ocean Beach in San Francisco, where you usually need a warm jacket on Labor Day weekend. Daughter Alice was seeking shade in a pop-up tent.

“We certainly didn’t have any intention of getting in the water. I do see a lot of surfers here though,” Levin said.

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Lots of families were there enjoying the sunshine.

“We’re enjoying summer. Now that it’s almost September, summer has started in San Francisco,” said Campbell McConnell.

The waves were crashing big time. It was a good reason to stay on the sand. Experts say never turn your back on the surf.

“We’re seeing rip currents and sneaker waves coming in. Rip currents can be dangerous, because they can pull you out,” said San Francisco Fire Department Captain Samuel Menchaca.

The San Francisco Fire Department says a Beach Hazard Warning is in effect through the weekend. SFFD posted ocean safety tips on its social media pages, with the motto: “When in doubt, don’t go out.”

Surfer Mickey Damapong did go out and was feeling the undertow.

“The rip is kind of pulling you towards the Cliff House. That’s something I was feeling out there,” Damapong said.

All roads to the coast were crowded, especially the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge on Saturday morning, with epic traffic headed towards Marin.

First responders want everyone to have an amazing weekend but make it safe.

“The advice: have a good time and be safe. When in doubt, don’t go out in the water,” Menchaca said.