San Diego

Southern California Braces for Showers and Cooler Temps as Tropical Storm Mario Remnants Drift In

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Published on September 17, 2025
Southern California Braces for Showers and Cooler Temps as Tropical Storm Mario Remnants Drift InSource: Mds08011, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The remnants of Tropical Storm Mario are expected to bring notable weather changes across Southern California, with the National Weather Service in San Diego predicting an increase in moisture that will lead to greater chances for showers and thunderstorms, particularly on Thursday. According to NWS San Diego, the inland areas are set to experience a gradual cooling trend through Friday, with high temperatures dipping slightly.

Wednesday afternoon is forecast to begin the weather shift, with moisture flowing in from Tropical Storm Mario, upping the ante for rainfall and storms. This change has a lingering effect, extending from Wednesday night into Thursday morning. It is reported that, especially over the mountains, the likelihood of showers and storms will peak by Thursday afternoon, as detailed in a forecast by the NWS San Diego.

However, the cooling will be less drastic for coastal areas, with temperatures falling 5 to 10 degrees. Residents and travelers are advised to anticipate an overcast Thursday with lowered temperatures due to the anticipated rain and storm activity. "High temperatures on Thursday will be around 4 to 8 degrees below average for inland areas with Thursday high temperatures ranging from around 80 near the coast to the 80s for the Inland Empire with the lower to mid 90s for the lower deserts," according to the NWS San Diego area forecast discussion.

Looking ahead to the weekend, the forecast suggests warming and a reduction in moisture levels. Saturday carries a chance of afternoon thunderstorms, mainly confined to the mountains and deserts. Into early next week, temperatures will begin to climb again, cresting at a few to around 5 degrees above average, with coastal areas hovering around 80 degrees and lower deserts hitting between 100 and 105 degrees. The remnants of Tropical Storm Mario will also affect marine conditions, bringing a slight chance of thunderstorms from today through Friday morning. The local marine community should exercise caution during this period, as storms could temporarily bring about lightning, gusty winds, and choppy seas.

Beachgoers should also be alert for possible lightning strikes, with the greatest risk occurring on Thursday. While Skywarn activation has not been requested, weather spotters are encouraged to report any significant conditions as they develop.