San Diegans faced a scorcher today, with temperatures soaring across the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) San Diego issued an Excessive Heat Warning that continues through 8 PM for the Coachella Valley-San Diego County Deserts. Locals were advised to brace for "unseasonably to dangerously hot temperatures through early next week," as the mercury was expected to hit 105 to 111 degrees in the lower deserts.
According to the Area Forecast Discussion from NWS San Diego, a shallower marine layer, stretching to about 1200 ft, has covered the coastal areas. Early morning travelers experienced reduced visibility due to dense fog, particularly higher coastal terrain and western portions of inland valleys. Transitioning into Sunday, temperatures should see a slight decline. The report indicates a weak closed low is set to bring cooler weather, but never mind the persistent warm conditions.
The NWS also took to Twitter to notify the community of the prevalent conditions, posting that "higher elevations away from the coast are seeing foggy conditions this morning. Travel with care before sunny skies make their way through the region later this morning." This alert, shared on the official NWS San Diego X account, was a timely reminder for those venturing outdoors in the early hours.
Higher elevations away from the coast are seeing foggy conditions this morning. Travel with care before sunny skies make their way through the region later this morning 😶🌫️🌤️ #CAwx pic.twitter.com/mNXxC2Glmm
— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) September 28, 2024
As we head into the week, temperatures will climb even further. The high-pressure system over Arizona is expected to strengthen, causing a substantial increase in inland temperatures by Tuesday. Inland valley areas and the low deserts will bear the brunt of the heatwave, with "about a 60 percent chance of temps 100+ degrees in the Inland Empire," as mentioned in the discussion provided by NWS San Diego. Despite no hazardous marine conditions forecasted through Wednesday, coastal fog will likely continue, shaping a stark contrast to the searing inland temperatures.
Residents in the forecasted areas are encouraged to stay vigilant and cool as the relentless grip of high temperatures persists. Officials remind those in heat-affected zones to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and check on vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those without air conditioning. The Excessive Heat Warning cautions that the risk is not only discomfort. It can pose serious health risks if proper care is not taken.
