Bay Space warmth wave: Large crowds flock to San Francisco seashores amid record-breaking triple digit warmth and smoky air circumstances
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) – Smoky conditions didn’t stop the crowds from making their way to the Bay Area beaches. Some of these beaches are closed and those with parking spaces still open are busier than ever.
WORKING DAY: This is where the Bay Area beaches are open and closed
Dozens of campfires burned on Ocean Beach Sunday night, which is not allowed during Spare the Air days. This after a day that consisted of hot temperatures, smoky conditions and massive crowds along the beaches.
“We were absolutely shocked when we got to the beach today. I mean, we actually thought we should go back to the car and get our masks because we’re not used to seeing so many people,” says Muffi Bailey, who lives in San Francisco.
Ocean Beach parking was closed after an estimated thousand people showed up Saturday night to celebrate Burning Man.
RELATED: San Francisco Closes Ocean Beach Parking Lot After Big Saturday Meeting, Mayor Says
Even so, many parked nearby and went inside on Sunday. Others opted for different locations like Crissy Field’s East Beach.
“It’s about as full as I’ve never seen it before,” said Chris Apicella from San Francisco.
Crissy Field East Beach in San Francisco is packed. One man said it was busier than he’s seen in 20 years. Some people told me other beaches are closed so they came here. You could really smell smoke earlier in the day, but right now it’s not that bad. @ abc7newsbayarea pic.twitter.com/SG0MmlFFzV
– JR Stone (@jrstonelive) September 7, 2020
Most of the Sunday smoke in the Bay Area came from two fires. Both the Woodward and August fires burn north of San Francisco.
Add three-digit temperatures and you have additional concerns in some areas.
Ralph Borrmann of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District said, “This is leading to high levels of ozone, particularly in parts of Santa Clara and the Livermore Valley.”
RECORD HEAT: SF hits 100 degrees, more than 10 cities in the Bay Area hit record temperatures
“People still enjoy themselves, but it’s not the bay we’re used to seeing, it’s not beautiful San Francisco that people visit,” said Austin Teece of Berkeley.
Still as crowded as these beaches. The attitude was positive. The spirit was festive and everything was topped with a spectacular sunset and the hope that we could meet during a hot, smoky pandemic.
“We’re doing our best and I think we just have to try not to match every last letter of every little regulation 100%. Just be patient with all of us, you know,” said one beachgoer Sunday.
The parking lots at Ocean Beach are still closed and will be closed until Tuesday.
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