San Diego

San Diego Basks In Sun As Afternoon Winds Whip Up Trouble

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Published on March 01, 2026
San Diego Basks In Sun As Afternoon Winds Whip Up TroubleSource: Alen Ištoković, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

San Diego rolled into the weekend under clear skies and cool coastal air, but inland neighborhoods will heat up quickly, with highs near 78°F expected today. Coastal spots stay more comfortable, with overnight lows hovering around 55°F, while afternoon and evening breezes are on track to ramp up, especially over higher terrain.

Afternoon Winds Pick Up

Northwest winds stay on the lighter side along the coast early, then kick into a higher gear this afternoon. Forecasters say nearshore gusts could reach about 20 mph, while mountain and desert passes may see gusts of 35 to 45 mph, and some canyons could push close to 50 mph. High-profile vehicles should use extra caution through exposed passes, and residents should secure loose outdoor items before the breeze starts flexing. These wind trends come from the National Weather Service in San Diego.

Marine Advisory For Offshore Waters

The National Weather Service has issued a Small Craft Advisory for offshore waters from 4 PM today to 9 PM tomorrow for waters from San Mateo Point to the Mexican border, including San Clemente Island. Expect northwest gusts of 20 to 25 knots and seas in the 4 to 7 foot range. Inexperienced mariners and small-boat operators should plan to stay in port and check local buoy and tide information before heading out, with the roughest conditions expected in the outer waters. See the National Weather Service for details and updates.

Foggy Mornings, Sunny Afternoons

Onshore flow will bulk up the marine layer tonight and bring patchy coastal fog before about 10 AM tomorrow, and again Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, which could cut visibility on coastal roads during the commute. After the fog burns off, expect mostly sunny afternoons and gradually cooler inland temperatures through Monday. Outdoor plans are best scheduled for the morning, where possible, and anyone staying out in the afternoon warmth should keep water handy.

What To Know

Expect a high near 78°F today and a low around 55°F tonight. Boaters should steer clear of offshore waters during the advisory window, and drivers should stay alert for gusty conditions in mountain passes. For minute-by-minute updates, check in with the National Weather Service before heading out.