San Diego residents are bracing for a wet and windy week as a series of storms is set to douse the region. The National Weather Service forecasts scattered light showers gradually increasing through Wednesday afternoon, with more intense weather conditions to follow. According to the NWS area forecast discussion, the storms will bring widespread showers and isolated thunderstorms from late Wednesday through Friday as the trough moves inland across northern Baja.
The NWS is calling for rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches west of the mountains, 2 to 5 inches in the mountainous areas, and 0.5 to 1.5 inches in the deserts between Wednesday night and Saturday. The situation is being closely monitored as the incoming weather system also raises the threat of rainfall exceeding flash flood guidance, with parts of Southern California placed in an Excessive Rainfall Outlook for the latter part of the week.
Today's weather is partly sunny and mild, with highs expected to be near 71 degrees, shifting to mostly cloudy with a chance of showers tonight as the first wave of moisture begins to roll in from the Pacific. The detailed forecast indicates a 40% chance of precipitation tonight, increasing to a 70% chance of showers by Tuesday night and an 80–90% chance from Wednesday into the weekend.
Residents in the mountain areas should also prepare for snowfall above 7,500 feet as the atmospheric conditions evolve over the coming days. The snow level is expected to start at above 8,000 feet but will fall to around 7,000 feet by Friday night. In marine areas, no hazardous weather is expected until the storm system arrives, potentially leading to erratic winds and heavy rain, reducing visibility where thunderstorms develop.
Further impacting the region, a new west-northwest swell is anticipated to bring higher surf and stronger rip currents starting Thursday. Beachgoers should exercise caution, especially since there is a slight chance of lightning from Wednesday night through Friday. With the prolonged period of inclement weather, San Diegans are advised to keep an eye on updates and stay prepared for changing conditions.
