The National Weather Service in San Diego has reported a weather pattern impacting the region throughout the weekend. An atmospheric river is expected to bring a mix of heavy rainfall this morning, accompanied by thunderstorms and prolonged, wet conditions. According to a forecast posted by the National Weather Service, the region is expected to experience "widespread moderate to heavy precipitation today, mainly between 6 AM and 4 PM." Coastal and valley areas anticipate another 1.50-2.25 inches of rain, while mountain areas brace for even more deluge, with estimated totals between 2 and 4 inches. A Flood Watch remains in effect until later this evening.
According to the forecast discussion by the NWS San Diego, San Diegans should prepare to potentially adjust their plans, as rain rates in urban areas could peak at 0.30-0.50 inches per hour and even reach 0.80 inches per hour on south-facing mountain slopes. This intensity could "likely produce roadway flooding, especially in poor drainage areas, and bring a threat of mud and debris flows in and below the recent burn scars." The storm frenzy is not expected to let up anytime soon, with a new winter storm set to impact the area again come Monday and continue through midweek.
Travel conditions are also affected by gusty south to west winds anticipated as the storm systems move through. Aviation services have been advised of scattered light showers that will continue to move north across the region, affecting visibility and conditions around air travel. Pilots are to be cautious of at least two waves of precip likely 13-21Z, bringing bases as low as 500-1000 ft MSL and VIS 1-3 SM in intermittent +RA.
Mariners aren't faring much better, with the NWS issuing a Small Craft Advisory effective until this afternoon due to south winds ramping up to 15-25 knots and the possibility of gusts between 25-35 knots through the afternoon. The storms bring not just high winds but also heavy rain, which will lead to reduced visibility and thunderstorms embedded within the rain, resulting in gusty, erratic winds, lightning, and possible waterspouts. Beachgoers are also advised of elevated surf conditions, compounded by the likelihood of thunderstorms throughout the afternoon.
