San Diego residents can anticipate a cooler-than-normal temperature drop that is practically autumnal as the region settles into a weekend of weather marked by chilled air and potential drizzles. NWS San Diego, CA, reports highs today around 5-10 degrees below the norm, particularly across the mountains and valleys. A minimal dip is expected on Sunday before temperatures plunge further on Monday to 10-20 degrees below average.
According to a detailed forecast from NWS San Diego, the region is not merely wrestling with a chill but also contending with persistent coastal low clouds over the mornings and nights, which might extend from the coast inland to the valleys and foothills, making for a time where San Diego's full range of microclimates will be felt in the brushing of clouds against mountain peaks, and the slight kiss of potential rainfall on an unsuspecting Sunday morning. Mind you, coastal dwellers may only see "patchy drizzle" at best, as forecasters put the chance of measurable precipitation below 10%.
The conversation with the sky begins anew as Monday introduces an upper-level closed low cutting through Central California, according to the NWS San Diego Area Forecast Discussion. This heralds a 15-25% chance of light precipitation from the coast to the lower slopes of the mountains. However, higher elevations may miss out on significant moisture despite anticipated increases in humidity. With rainfall expected to be generally "less than one-tenth inch, though locally higher amounts are possible on the coastal slopes", even as wild gusts up to 50 mph might rip alongside mountain slopes and deserts, the land may whisper for more but receive precious little.
As the closed low moves on and Tuesday rolls in, temperatures will remain subdued around 10-17 degrees below the usual for inland areas, holding the marine layer persistent yet patchy as it reaches heights of 4000-5000 ft. The advance of another closed low towards midweek fuels further speculation of light rainfall and cooler conditions, coupled with gusty winds that may slice through the tranquility of mountains and deserts alike. Residents can finally expect a gradual warming towards the weekend as an upper-level ridge presses in, promising respite from cooler climes and the reign of gusty winds.
Boaters and marine enthusiasts should also stay alert for stronger winds, particularly in the outer coastal waters on Monday and Monday night. Gusts from the W/NW could march up to 20-25 knots, as reported by NWS San Diego's Marine section. Those in the maritime community must take note, with no hazardous conditions expected to prevail through Wednesday. The sea remains mostly a serene counterpart to the terrestrial tumult above.
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