As Southern Californians enjoy a pleasant day with temperatures hovering in the 60s to lower 70s, except for the chillier 50s in the mountains, the National Weather Service San Diego has forecasted an even warmer Thursday. The "warmest day this week," according to NWS San Diego, promises highs in the 70s in lower elevations, with slightly cooler conditions expected in the high desert and mountains and 50s in the higher mountains.
In a more detailed outlook, conditions over the coastal basin witnessed low clouds and fog this morning, which are expected to retreat slightly, "increasing offshore flow will get rid of the coastal low clouds and fog and bring warmer weather Wednesday and Thursday," the NWS Area Forecast Discussion reported. However, onshore flow will return Friday and Saturday, introducing more clouds and cooler weather climate changes often the hallmark of California’s coastal regions.
The NWS forecast discussion also indicates that "a deeper shortwave in our active jet stream heads into the West Coast Friday and shoots east Saturday," hinting at a minor disturbance that could affect the weather later in the week. Despite this development, the models suggest that Southern California will most likely remain dry, with the next warming trend predicted to kick in next week as offshore flow strengthens.
Aviation concerns include low stratus clouds and possible dense fog today and into early Tuesday, potentially dropping visibility to near 2 NM or less at times; mariners should remain vigilant due to these conditions. As for fire weather, some areas will experience northerly breezes with relative humidity levels falling, creating elevated fire weather conditions on Tuesday and Wednesday. However, these are not expected to reach critical levels, "Fire weather conditions will be elevated Tuesday and Wednesday, but not critical," the National Weather Service advised, emphasizing safety and preparedness.
Additionally, minor coastal flooding remains possible in vulnerable areas during high morning tides over the next few days, peaking Tuesday and Wednesday near 7 feet. Residents and visitors in these coastal zones should thus stay informed and exercise caution during elevated tides.
