The National Weather Service San Diego has issued an update indicating that, beginning today and continuing into Tuesday, weak northeast-to-east Santa Ana winds are expected to impact the coastal mountain slopes and foothills, extending to parts of the eastern valleys and Inland Empire. As reported by NWS San Diego, "Peak wind gusts will be 25-40 mph late this morning and afternoon." Areas situated below mountain passes will likely experience the strongest wind activities.
In addition to the winds, a notable warming trend is underway with temperatures soaring 10-15 degrees above normal levels for this time of year. Specifically, on Tuesday, inland coastal areas and valleys can expect high temperatures to reach the low to mid-80s, according to the forecast published by the NWS San Diego. This surge represents a 10-20 degree departure from the norm for early December, signaling an unusually warm period for San Diego residents.
The warming trend continues throughout the week, reaching its peak for coastal regions on Tuesday and spreading to inland areas by Wednesday. "The upper level high over the East Pac amplifies and expands eastward on Tuesday," the Area Forecast Discussion notes. High temperatures will be markedly above average, with inland coastal places and western valleys experiencing mid-80s highs. This is coupled with bouts of weak Santa Ana winds that contribute to the dry, warmed conditions.
As the week progresses, the upper-level high-pressure system is expected to migrate eastward, with offshore winds weakening and subsequently limiting their reach, mostly to the foothills. Cooling is forecast to commence along the coast on Thursday as a result of the sea breeze intensifying, although high temperatures in the mountains and deserts will remain constant. According to the same analysis, a "minor bump up in offshore gradients and Santa Ana winds" is anticipated on Friday morning. However, this increase has shown a trend of being weaker than previously expected, according to the NWS San Diego.
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