Californians are bracing for an unseasonal chill as a powerful storm brings snow, rain, and gusty winds across the region. The National Weather Service in San Diego reports "near record cold high temperatures today with strong and gusty southwest to west winds" and potential thunderstorms with small hail into the evening. Forecasters are warning of drier conditions over the weekend albeit with temperatures still below the seasonal average.
From the snow-dusted mountains to the coastal areas, the weather has taken a drastic turn. According to NWS Forecast Office San Diego, the area's mountains are experiencing temperatures "as much as 25 to 35 degrees below average," while coastal regions are only reaching highs in the 50s. The snowfall has been significant, with the NWS predicting "2 to 4 inches from 4000 to 5000 feet," and an even more considerable "8 to 12 inches from 6000 to 7500 feet."
The situation on the ground is already impacting travel, as per an update from NWSSanDiego on X, "The 7 AM radar image showed showers over the coastal waters moving SE at 25 mph." Inland, those planning to venture through the mountain passes should prepare for potential delays or road closures due to snow accumulation.
The 7 AM radar image showed showers over the coastal waters moving SE at 25 mph. Scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms with small hail will continue throughout the day over and west of the mountains. The snow level was 3,000 feet with accumulating snow at 4,000 feet.#cawx pic.twitter.com/gMhykg2ghl
— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) April 5, 2024
Maritime activities aren't spared either, with a Small Craft Advisory in effect until Saturday morning due to strong winds and a turbulent sea state. Beachgoers in San Diego County are under a High Surf Advisory, facing surf that could peak at 7-8 feet by this afternoon. Meanwhile, Orange County Coastal Areas remain under a Beach Hazards Statement, as reported by the National Weather Service.
As the storm system continues to move eastward, residents can expect the mercury to rise slightly by next Tuesday, as forecasters predict "dry with a warming trend for Tuesday through Thursday with Thursday high temperatures 5 to 10 degrees above average."
