San Diego/ Weather & Environment
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Published on May 18, 2024
Breezy Conditions and Coastal Cloudiness in Store for San Diego, NWS Forecasts Gusty Winds and Rip Current RisksSource: Leandro Neumann Ciuffo, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Hold on to your hats, San Diego! The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts a breezy day today across the mountains and deserts, with gusts reaching 20-35 MPH and possibly higher. The city looks at highs within 5 degrees of average under mostly sunny skies inland, though it'll be cloudier by the coast. NWS Forecast reports a typical spring clime for Southern California.

Those expecting to start the weekend with clear skies might have to temper their expectations, especially if they plan to hang by the beaches. According to the Area Forecast Discussion by the National Weather Service San Diego, CA, there's a "20-40%) chance of mostly cloudy skies near the beaches by Saturday afternoon." However, the valleys should see some sun eventually. The weather experts remind us it's all part of a troughing pattern set to stick around, continuing to push those west and southwest winds through the region swiftly.

The cool and gusty scenario isn't limited to just today, as the forecast discussion indicates a weak area of low pressure rolling in by Monday, set to "cool much of Southern California." Inland areas expect daytime highs up to 10 degrees below average, while coastal and mountain regions will hover near 60 degrees.

Surfers and beachgoers should brace to navigate a rip current risk as a southwest swell will likely build through Sunday, lasting through Tuesday, says NWS San Diego. The swell could generate above normal surf conditions, with 3-5 feet waves on exposed southwest-facing beaches. This surging sea will offer some eye-catching waves for surf aficionados and pose a high risk of rip currents at local beaches.

For those taking to the skies, aviation conditions could be tricky. "BKN/OVC low clouds with bases 1500-2500 ft MSL and tops to 3000-3500 ft MSL" will reduce visibility this morning over the coastal basin. Aviators should anticipate slow clearing inland and partial clearing near the coast later in the day, per the Area Forecast Discussion.