The forecast in San Diego promises steady warmth along the coast today, with minimal change from Monday and a slight temperature increase by about 5 degrees in the lower desert regions, reports National Weather Service San Diego. Coastal areas are expected to top temperatures ranging from 72 to 82 degrees, while western valleys and inland Orange County could see 82 to 87 degrees highs. Looking inland, the valleys might warm up to 83 and 89 degrees, with mountain regions at 4000 to 7000 feet seeing a range of 68 to 77 degrees and the high desert areas getting into the comfortable bracket of 80 to 84 degrees.
The warming trend, largely maintained by a stubborn high-pressure system to the south, is set to persist into Wednesday, with inland highs forecasted to be "5 to 10 degrees above average for inland areas," according to a National Weather Service Area Forecast Discussion. Areas such as the inland valleys and the lower deserts will drive thermometers into the mid-80s to lower 90s and the mid-to-upper 90s, respectively, while the coastal regions will hover slightly cooler, with temperatures envisioned between 73 and 81 degrees.
However, as the week rolls toward the weekend, the Weather Service anticipates a slight temperature dip with the approach of a low-pressure system, promising "a few degrees cooler for Thursday through Sunday" and the re-emergence of night and morning coastal low clouds. Some variance is expected depending on the locale, but the overall pattern signifies a general cooling, signifying autumn has descended upon us.
As next week's forecast indicates, the low-pressure system slated to move inland across the western states will usher in a brisk turnabout, creating conditions for "several degrees of cooling for inland areas on Monday and Tuesday." Those heading to the mountains and deserts should prep for "stronger and gusty southwest to west winds," the National Weather Service forecast discussion outlines. As this occurs, beachgoers might contend with stronger surf and rip currents, especially in the Orange County area, where a swell could see surf reaching 3-5 feet with sets up to 6 feet starting tonight and carrying on through Wednesday.
For the city's aviators and marine enthusiasts, the skies retain clarity today and tonight, with only a moderate possibility of impacting coastal airports with morning fog. At the same time, the sea remains devoid of threatening conditions through Saturday. As always, the National Weather Service keeps its arms open, albeit virtually, urging Skywarn weather spotters to stay vigilant and report on any significant meteorological outplays.
