Residents of Southern California are bracing for a range of weather conditions, with the NWS San Diego forecasting a slight cooldown in some areas while others can expect warming trends. According to the National Weather Service San Diego, coastal and valley regions will see a modest increase in temperature by a few to around 5 degrees. Specifically, San Diego County is expected to experience highs in the lower to mid-70s near the coast and up to the 90s for the inland valleys. Orange County can anticipate similar temperature ranges. Meanwhile, inland areas of the Inland Empire are preparing for highs that could reach 105 degrees.
While increasing temperatures are notable, the forecast also includes a chance of showers and the slight possibility of thunderstorms, mainly expected in the mountains and deserts in the afternoon. In an unfortunate twist, the Southeast winds blowing across Imperial County into the San Diego County deserts, as the dewpoint rises to tropical levels, gusting out of the southeast might carry the smell of the increased monsoon moisture far and wide. Thunderstorms, if they occur, are more likely to strike during the afternoon and could bring brief heavy rainfall, particularly on Friday afternoon.
For the latter part of the week, the Area Forecast Discussion released by NWS indicates a surge in heat for the weekend, especially in the lower deserts. With predicted highs between 112 to 117 degrees and lows not much cooler in the 80s and lower 90s, health officials are likely to issue heat advisories. While enjoying the slight relief from the heat today, residents in these areas should prepare for dangerous heat levels over the weekend.
Looking toward the sky, there's a 10 to 20 percent chance of afternoon and early evening thunderstorms for mountainous and desert locales, which could cause complications for local aviation. When clear skies often reign supreme, increasing clouds at or above 12000 feet MSL today could lead to isolated thunderstorms, potentially affecting visibility due to gusty winds and blowing dust. The marine forecast, fortunately, is more predictable, with no hazardous conditions expected through Monday.
The NWS forecast office emphasizes the importance of heat preparedness. With an Excessive Heat Watch already in place from Saturday morning through Sunday evening for Coachella Valley-San Diego County Deserts-San Gorgonio Pass Near Banning, residents should stay hydrated and avoid extended periods outdoors during peak heat times.
