Beachgoers planning to kick off their holiday weekend may need to hold off on their sunbathing plans in San Diego, but Orange County might catch a break from the gloom. The National Weather Service in San Diego predicts a continuation of the marine layer with cooler temperatures and gusty winds through Saturday before the sun makes a more prominent return.
If you're eyeing those waves in San Diego, keep your expectations in check. "Cooling will continue through Saturday with gusty southwest to west winds in the mountains and deserts," a report from the National Weather Service San Diego indicated. In other words, you might want to hold onto yours hat. Coastal low clouds will probably stick around in the valleys and lower mountain slopes, making for sluggish daytime clearing along the coast. Stronger wind gusts ranging from 40 to 50 mph could also whip up in the region this afternoon and evening.
However, there's a silver lining for those north in Orange County. According to an X post by NWS San Diego, "Chances look best for clearing in OC tomorrow, but whatever does happen won't be for too long." So, if you're itching for some sun, your best bet would be to head up the coast, at least for Saturday.
How's it looking for clearing at the beaches tomorrow to start out the holiday weekend? 🥳 Chances look best for clearing in OC tomorrow, but whatever does happen won't be for too long.
— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) May 24, 2024
Better chances for clearing will occur by Sunday and Monday 🌥️🌞 #CAwx pic.twitter.com/1bn85m3Fgz
Not all hope is lost for a sunny retreat. By Sunday and into Monday, the forecast hints at an eagerly awaited comeback of clearer skies. As the high pressure to the south starts to assert its influence, warming trends through the coming week should reduce the marine layer. If you're planning a Memorial Day beach bash, the weather seems to align for a bright and balmy celebration. "Better chances for clearing will occur by Sunday and Monday," as per NWS San Diego's social media musings.
But until the overcast skies clear, stay weather-aware if you're venturing into the mountains or deserts, where wind advisories remain in effect through early Saturday. The might of nature's breath under the San Gorgonio Pass recommends extra caution for travel, with gusts potentially hitting a howling 65 mph. So, while that Memorial Day grill-out is on the horizon, keep the sunscreen on standby and prepare for a blustery preamble to the holiday festivities.
