San Diego residents should expect a slightly warmer and drier day today compared to yesterday. High temperatures will rise, and conditions are anticipated to be drier, with the area moving past the remnants of Mario. However, this respite will be short-lived as we look toward the start of the week, when increased moisture is predicted to lead to periods of light to moderate rain showers by later tomorrow afternoon, more widespread across San Diego County and the mountains, according to the NWS San Diego.
For those planning activities for Sunday, preparation for minimal rainfall is recommended as light showers are expected to increase later in the day, with rainfall amounts generally less than a tenth of an inch for most areas, as reported by NWS San Diego. Slightly higher amounts up to a quarter of an inch are possible in the mountain regions, but most will experience very sparse precipitation. Meanwhile, the marine layer is gradually returning, likely leading to some low cloud cover forming up to 15 miles inland, potentially affecting visibility in certain inland valleys.
Looking ahead to Monday and Tuesday, the Area Forecast Discussion by NWS San Diego indicates that a deepening trough will enhance shower and thunderstorm chances. This weather pattern is bound to continue throughout the week, barring Wednesday, when conditions are expected to dry up again. Before this brief dry spell, though, San Diego could see localized showers intensifying, especially in the mountainous areas where up to 0.5 inches of rain are possible.
Maritime concerns will also peak with a slight chance for thunderstorms over coastal waters overnight Monday into Tuesday afternoon. "Any storm could briefly produce lightning, gusty erratic winds, and choppy seas," warns NWS San Diego. However, no additional hazardous marine conditions are expected through Wednesday. Skywarn activation has not been requested, but weather spotters are still encouraged to report any significant weather conditions they observe. For those travelling through affected regions, the marine layer and potential inland cloud cover could result in some flight delays or visibility issues, so it's wise to stay updated on the latest weather updates as the week progresses.
