As an unrelenting low pressure system hovers over Southern California, residents are bracing for continued bouts of inclement weather, including heavy rainfall, potential thunderstorms, and significant snowfall in higher elevations. According to the National Weather Service San Diego, the downpour will persist through much of today, with a possibility of isolated thunderstorms flaring up this afternoon.
San Diegans are set to experience another chilly day, with temperatures dipping 4-8 degrees below the norm at the coast and plummeting even further—10-25 degrees below average—across valleys, mountains, and deserts. The National Weather Service warns locals of the potential for up to an inch of snow accumulation above 5000 feet, with heavier snowfall expected at loftier altitudes, marking 5 to 8 inches above 7000 feet.
Travelers on the roads today are being urged to stay cautious. "Scattered heavy showers are moving inland across the coast and western valleys," the NWS San Diego posted. With rain rates reaching intense peaks of 1" per hour, the threat of local flash flooding is very real. Even as the tumultuous weather is forecasted to taper off in most regions by Monday, those situated in the mountains should keep their raincoats at hand, as showers are expected to linger.
[Radar Update]: Scattered heavy showers are moving inland across the coast and western valleys. Pockets of very heavy rainfall will occur with these cells, so use caution if you're traveling this morning.#CAwx pic.twitter.com/9zBvykRgA4
— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) March 31, 2024
Looking ahead, a brief respite appears on the horizon with warmer temperatures promised for Tuesday and Wednesday. But any hopes for extended springtime warmth are likely to be dashed by another looming low pressure system slated to reintroduce cooler conditions, brisk onshore winds, and a renewed chance of precipitation as the latter part of the week approaches. Beachgoers should remain mindful of the "dangerous swimming conditions" caused by west southwest swells, as highlighted in a beach hazard statement and a high surf advisory.
