The National Weather Service in San Diego forecasts a warm-up along the coast and inland valleys starting Thursday, with temperatures expected to rise further into the weekend. The inland valleys and lower coastal mountain slopes are set to experience the most significant warming. By Monday, inland high temperatures are anticipated to peak at 10 to 15 degrees above average. Meanwhile, the marine layer will be shallower, and onshore flow will weaken, preceding this warming trend, as per the NWS San Diego.
San Diegans should also prepare to slowly adjust to the heat, with Saturday's temperatures forecasted to be 5 to 10 degrees above average, climbing from the lower 70s near the coast to around 90 for the Inland Empire and the lower deserts. According to the Area Forecast Discussion by the National Weather Service, "Slower warming will continue for most areas for each day from Saturday through Monday."
In the longer term, while high pressure is predicted to strengthen through to Monday slowly, models indicate a large area of low pressure approaching the West Coast next week. This system increases the likelihood of widespread precipitation over southwestern California during the latter half of the week, although forecasters express low confidence in the precipitation's timing and amount.
As for the immediate impacts, beachgoers are being urged to stay vigilant due to a West-northwest swell creating 4 to 6 feet waves with sets up to 8 feet, predominantly south of Del Mar. "Elevated surf combined with high tides could lead to minor tidal overflow," warns the National Weather Service. A Beach Hazards Statement has been issued for certain areas along the coast from Thursday morning through late Friday night.
Lastly, mariners should anticipate northwest wind gusts around 20 knots near San Clemente Island on Thursday afternoon and evening. No hazardous marine conditions are expected to follow through Monday. As for aviators, mostly clear skies are forecasted with potential low clouds affecting mainly southwest San Diego County, possibly impacting visibility.
