Residents of San Diego and surrounding areas are being notified of impending marine and coastal hazards, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) San Diego. With strong rip currents and high surf expected, the NWS advises inexperienced swimmers to remain out of the water over the next few days. The more treacherous conditions are particularly notable for those considering beach visits or water activities.
Looking at the temperatures, coastal areas today will experience highs from 63 to 69 degrees, while inland areas will see a slight increase, reaching up to 5 degrees warmer. However, conditions will shift as Tuesday promises cooler temperatures, dropping a few degrees near the coast and between 5 to 10 degrees in the mountains and valleys. "Areas of stronger and gusty southwest to west winds are expected for the mountains and deserts for Tuesday afternoon and night," the NWS reports, with gusts potentially hitting 45 to 55 mph and isolated gusts peaking around 60 mph.
Rainfall is also forecast for Tuesday afternoon and evening. Accumulations are expected to range from less than one-tenth inch near the coast to one-tenth to one-quarter inch on the coastal mountain slopes. According to the NWS San Diego’s forecast discussion, "a band of showers is expected to move southeastward across the area during the afternoon and early evening." Starting at 7500 to 8000 feet, snow levels are anticipated to drop to 4500 to 5000 feet by Christmas morning, with a few inches of snowfall likely above 7500 feet.
Entering the long term, from Thursday to the weekend, it is forecasted to be dry with a warming trend. Temperatures will soar, reaching 10 to 15 degrees above average for the mountains and deserts. The coming weekend could see potential night and morning coastal low clouds and fog, including dense fog near the coast, "as the marine layer becomes shallower as high pressure aloft strengthens," the NWS San Diego’s discussion mentions.
The continued presence of long-period swells will significantly affect marine life, with the NWS issuing a Small Craft Advisory for the outer waters. Seas will range from 8 to 12 feet in outer coastal waters and 7 to 9 feet within 30 nm of the coast, along with wind gusts of 20-30 knots expected late Tuesday night. A High Surf Advisory remains in effect for beachgoers until 4 AM PST Wednesday for select coastal areas. The alert warns of 6-12 feet of surf with the possibility of higher sets, which could pose hazards to swimmers and minor coastal flooding threats.
Lastly, regarding aviation, some coastal areas may face low clouds and fog that can affect visibility, with some inland extensions near higher terrain. "Chances are lower tonight for dense [fog] at SAN and SNA," the NWS elaborates, which could influence airport operations and visibility until clearing is observed by late afternoon. Skywarn activation has not been requested, but weather spotters are encouraged to report significant weather conditions.
