San Diego

San Diego Braces for Cooler Weather and Possible Showers as Autumnal Chill Takes Hold

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Published on September 26, 2025
San Diego Braces for Cooler Weather and Possible Showers as Autumnal Chill Takes HoldSource: Leandro Neumann Ciuffo, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

San Diegans can expect slightly cooler temperatures and potential rain as an autumnal mood settles over the region. In a forecast published by the National Weather Service San Diego, high temperatures of 5 to 10 degrees below the seasonal average are predicted for today, set to warm slightly as we head into the weekend. For those planning outdoor activities, there's a slight chance of showers today and an increased chance over the weekend, particularly on Saturday afternoon and evening.

According to the same forecast, Friday morning might be greeted with drizzly weather due to a thickening marine layer. The marine influence is strong, with coastal low clouds stretching well inland and into the mountains. For the coast and inland valleys, there's a promise of a dreary start with patchy drizzle expected. The inner workings of our atmosphere reveal instability that may bring thunderstorms later in the day, mainly focused over mountainous terrains. However, the chances of any significant weather events remain relatively slight.

Saturday's outlook seems to align with this trend, providing high temperatures consistent with or below what's typically expected for this time of year. The NWS discussion indicates that the center of a low-pressure system will enhance the likelihood of precipitation, bringing the highest chances for rain and thunderstorms during the afternoon and into the evening.

And while residents may be pondering the implications of these summer-ending showers, there's also news for beachgoers. "South swell from Hurricane Narda will arrive this weekend. Swell of 4-5 feet with a period of 12-14 seconds will produce elevated surf and a high rip current risk Sunday through Tuesday," reports NWS San Diego. Those frequenting south-facing beaches should especially take heed, as sets could reach 7 feet, posing significant risks even for the most experienced swimmers.

Transitioning into the new week, expect Monday to dry out and temperatures to tick upward, potentially before another cool down on Tuesday. By then, high temperatures will still hover several degrees below average, particularly in inland and mountain regions. The overall pattern suggests a muted and measured ascent back towards typically warmer conditions, with Thursday's highs still predicted to be a bit cooler than the area's standard fare.