The National Weather Service in San Diego is forecasting a splash of rain and possibility for thunderstorms come Wednesday night into Thursday, potentially dampening the Southern California region. According to the weather advisory, the coast could see one-third to half an inch of rain, with mountain areas getting drenched with up to an inch. Deserts seem to be spared the brunt of this bout, expecting "mostly one-tenth inch or less" of rainfall.
Before the downpour, the NWS predicts a slight rise in temperatures, a few ticks up the thermometer from yesterday’s chill, especially "4 to 8 degrees warmer for the mountains," as per the NWS. It's a momentary relief as a cold snap is expected later in the week, dropping temps in the mountains "as much as 10 to locally 15 degrees below average for the mountains." The NWS also signaled a slight chance of thunderstorms, primarily along the coast.
The upcoming wet weather is due to a low-pressure system moving in from the west which is also bringing snowfall to areas above 6,000 feet. Elevations from 5,500 feet up can prepare for a blanket of 3 to 6 inches of snow. The forecast detailed by the National Weather Service shares that the snow levels will peak at around 6,000 feet Wednesday evening before dropping overnight.
Looking ahead, post-storm conditions promise clearer skies as we trek into the weekend. "Dry and warmer for Friday into early next week with high temperatures mostly a few degrees below average to near average," states the NWS. Mariner’s take head; stronger westerly winds and rougher seas are expected by Thursday, potentially creating hazards, particularly in the outer waters.
The forecast doesn't call for Skywarn spotter activation, but the San Diego National Weather Service encourages reports of significant weather conditions.
