San Diego Braces for Final Winter Storm with Rain, Wind, and Mountain Snow
San Diego County residents are preparing for a third and final winter storm system bringing widespread rain and wind throughout the region. Showers are expected to diminish overnight, with stronger gusts calming by Friday morning. A winter weather advisory remains in effect until 9 a.m. Friday, and a high surf advisory is in effect through 10 p.m. Friday.
Wind Advisory and Potential Impacts
A wind advisory is in effect for the coast and valleys from 9 a.m. Thursday to 2 a.m. Friday. Southwest winds of 15 to 25 mph are expected, with gusts up to 35 to 45 mph. Gusty winds may blow around unsecured objects, potentially downing tree limbs and causing power outages. Driving, especially for high-profile vehicles, may be difficult. National Weather Service officials warn of potentially damaging west winds along mountain crests and adjacent desert slopes.
Rainfall and Snow Forecast
Light to moderate rain is expected Thursday, with potential for ponding on roads and minor street flooding in urban areas. Thunderstorms could bring locally heavy rain, stronger winds, and small hail. Rainfall totals are expected to range from approximately a quarter to a half inch for the coast and valleys, and a half inch to an inch for the foothills and mountains. NBC San Diego reports that snow levels will drop as low as 4,500 feet, with 1 to 8 inches expected between 4,500 and 7,000 feet, and 8 to 12 inches on the highest peaks.
Recent Rainfall Totals
As of Wednesday morning, significant rainfall had already been recorded across the county. Some notable totals include:
- Lake Cuyamaca: 5.89 inches
- Julian: 4.78 inches
- Pine Hills: 4.66 inches
- Palomar Observatory: 3.75 inches
- Descanso: 3.02 inches
- San Diego International Airport: 1.16 inches
High Surf Advisory
A high surf advisory is in effect along the coast through 10 p.m. Friday, with waves of 4 to 7 feet expected, and sets as high as 8 feet in San Diego County. Dangerous swimming and surfing conditions are anticipated, along with potential localized beach erosion. NBC San Diego
Looking Ahead
The weather service forecasts warmer and drier conditions from Friday through Monday, with high temperatures climbing to approximately five degrees above average.