SoCal residents, hold onto your umbrellas. The National Weather Service in San Diego has announced a series of incoming storms set to soak the region from late tonight through Monday. In a statement obtained by NWS, dry conditions are expected to give way to a moist, westerly flow that will pepper the landscape with rain and snow across the higher elevations.
The first round of precipitation will hit Saturday evening, with chances of significant rainfall in the mountains at around 50 percent. And it's not just the rain making the headlines, there’s also a potential for thunderstorms. NWS San Diego's X post states, "A slight chance of thunderstorms has also been introduced to the forecast". The snow level is expected to dance around 6500 to 7000 feet, so those at high elevations should be ready for a white blanket soon enough.
🧵1/4: Chances of rain remain in the forecast! Latest guidance is indicating 2 main rounds of precipitation with periods of showers and dry weather in between. The first round is expected Sat evening into Sun morning with a second round Mon. pic.twitter.com/QsCYezcxQq
— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) January 19, 2024
For beachgoers, the news isn't all sunshine and sandy toes. The NWS warns that a High Surf Advisory is in effect from 4 AM Saturday to 2 PM PST Sunday in San Diego County, with waves up to 8 feet looming off the coast. Orange County isn't escaping unscathed, either, with hazardous swimming conditions prompted by waves of 4 to 6 feet hitting the beaches. Visitors and locals alike are advised to remain out of the turbulent waters to avoid the risky conditions.
Looking ahead, after a likely soggy weekend, the region should brace for more widespread precipitation on Monday, including additional thunderstorm action. Though the forecast for snow remains a bit up in the air, with the snow levels generally staying above 7000 feet, mountain residents can expect the snow levels to briefly dip below that mark come Sunday. If you plan on hitting the slopes or trails, keep your eyes peeled for updates, as NWS San Diego posted: "Stay tuned as the event gets closer and we refine rain/snow timing and amounts!" #CAwx
