As Southern Californians reach for their sweaters and crank up the heaters, the National Weather Service in San Diego provides a glimpse into the chilly week ahead. National Weather Service San Diego reported unseasonably cool temperatures across the region, with today's highs ranging from 65 to 72 degrees west of the mountains, and even cooler in the high desert and mountains, where conditions could drop to the teens in the higher valleys around Big Bear tonight, marking the coldest night of the season so far.
The weather pattern holding sway over the region has been characterized by low-pressure systems that brought winds and showers, particularly in the northern Inland Empire and through the San Gorgonio Pass where some gauges recorded over an inch of rainfall, according to the Area Forecast Discussion by the National Weather Service San Diego winds have been strong through mountain passes and over ridges, with isolated gusts exceeding 50 mph earlier this morning. A rotor has been disturbing the Palm Springs area, though these winds are expected to diminish gradually.
There's a cautionary tale in the marine areas, with the NWS issuing a Small Craft Advisory until 11 AM this morning due to strong northwest winds and steep seas that impacted the outer coastal waters and areas near San Clemente Island. Improvements in conditions are anticipated by late evening. Additionally, San Diego County beaches witnessed surf heights of 3-6 feet with occasional sets up to 7 feet, which prompted a Beach Hazards Statement this evening to warn beachgoers of the dangerous rip currents.
Looking ahead, this cool interlude is set to give way to anticipation and uncertainty. With rain predicted for the weekend, the National Weather Service suggests that Southern Californians might experience light showers or the season's first significant rainfall. A 60% chance exists for the coast to receive at least 0.50 inch of rain from Saturday through Sunday night, but as it’s known, this time of year, forecasting models often struggle with detailed predictions, yet it never hurts to have an umbrella ready.
