San Diego

Santa Ana Smacks San Diego, Inland Temps Sizzle To 86 On Sunday

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Published on March 08, 2026
Santa Ana Smacks San Diego, Inland Temps Sizzle To 86 On SundaySource: Luciof, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

San Diegans woke up to clear skies and a crisp 52°F (about 11°C) around 5:30 AM PDT today. That cool start will not last long. Inland areas are expected to heat up quickly, with highs near 86°F this afternoon, while the coast remains more moderate. Gusty east-to-northeasterly Santa Ana winds will keep beaches breezy and could whip up sudden crosswinds through canyon corridors.

Afternoon Gusts And Wind Advisory

A Wind Advisory is in effect through 5 PM PDT today, for inland valleys, mountain slopes and passes. Gusts will be strongest in the usual wind-prone spots. Valley locations can see gusts in the 35 to 50 mph range, coastal slopes can gust 55 to 65 mph, and lower elevations may still experience gusts up to about 30 mph at times. Residents are urged to secure patio furniture, pick up loose yard items, and use extra caution when driving on exposed roads and bridges, according to the National Weather Service San Diego.

Night Showers And Cooler Monday

There is a slight chance of light showers from late Sunday night into Monday morning, mainly over the mountains, with totals expected to stay under a tenth of an inch. Monday should feel noticeably cooler with highs around 69°F. Onshore flow may return Monday night and Tuesday morning, bringing low clouds or patchy fog to the immediate coast. 

Plan Ahead

If you are heading outside today, plan for layers at the shoreline and tie down anything that might become a projectile in a strong gust. That includes umbrellas, trash bins and lightweight patio gear that can easily tumble down the block. Boaters should keep an eye out for intermittent stronger winds near the inner coastal waters and any posted marine advisories. Drivers should slow down through the canyon and pass sections where crosswinds can kick up quickly. Keep up with local forecasts and advisories through tonight and check official updates if you have travel or events on the calendar.