San Diegans might want to pack a light jacket and keep the umbrella handy as we head into the weekend. According to the National Weather Service San Diego, a cool system from the Gulf of Alaska is making its way down the west coast, possibly bringing light rain to the coastal regions but leaving Orange County on the dry side. The chances of the Inland Empire getting any measurable precipitation are slimmer, with expected totals less than 0.05 inches for most areas that see rain.
In a more detailed forecast, the National Weather Service has reported that temperatures would see "little change" today, with the coast and valleys experiencing cooler, cloudier, and windier conditions over the weekend. "There will be stronger and gusty southwest to west winds for the deserts onto the desert slopes of the mountains for Saturday afternoon into Saturday night," according to their latest Area Forecast Discussion. Outdoor enthusiasts and residents in these areas should anticipate wind gusts potentially hitting 50 to 60 mph, with some isolated gusts reaching 70 mph.
In the inland regions, Saturday's temperatures will be considerably cooler than usual, dropping 8 to 12 degrees in the mountain areas, valleys, and high desert. Temperatures near the coast are expected to hover in the lower 60s, while the lower deserts might experience the mid-80s to lower 90s. Come Sunday, a slight warming trend begins, but the high winds will continue to be a factor, with forecasted gusts reaching up to 65 mph in certain areas.
Next week's crests of high pressure should dominate the weather scene, leading to a significant warm-up. By Thursday, high temperatures are slated to be "around 10 degrees above average," which translates to the lower to mid-70s near the coast and possibly up to 109 degrees in the lower deserts. The marine layer is predicted to shrink for beach-goers and valley dwellers, meaning less morning overcast stretching inland past the far western valleys come mid-week, per the National Weather Service.
Mariners might note that the weekend could bring choppy conditions with stronger gusts near San Clemente Island by Saturday evening. However, no hazardous marine conditions are expected through Saturday morning. For those residing in or around the wind advisory areas, precautions should be taken as Advisories are in place from noon Saturday until 2 AM Sunday, covering a broad stretch including the San Bernardino County Mountains and the San Gorgonio Pass near Banning.
With a variable forecast ahead, locals are encouraged to stay updated and adjust their weekend plans accordingly. Safety comes first, so residents in wind advisory zones should prepare for the blustery conditions and potential driving hazards, while those anticipating rain might welcome the gentle showers as a respite from an otherwise warm and dry season.
