San Diego woke up to mostly cloudy skies and a muggy feel today, with temperatures hovering around 57°F at San Diego International. Those clouds are expected to thin into partial sunshine with an afternoon high near 70°F. Inland valleys and mountain slopes will notice a sharper change later in the day as winds start to crank up.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
A low-pressure area to the north will strengthen onshore flow today, pushing stronger southwest-to-west winds into the mountains and deserts this afternoon and evening, with gusts mainly in the 35 to 45 mph range. The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory for Apple and Lucerne Valleys from 11 AM through 2 AM tomorrow. Canyon roads and high-profile vehicles may be most affected during peak gusts, so drivers will want to keep both hands on the wheel.
If you live above the coastal plain, it is a good time to tie down patio furniture and bring in anything that might go airborne once the gusts kick up. Travelers using exposed passes should plan for slower trips and reduced visibility. More details: National Weather Service San Diego.
Offshore Shift Friday, Warmer Weekend
Late tonight, the lower-level flow shifts offshore, and north winds will strengthen near and below the coastal slopes Friday morning, again producing gusty conditions in the foothills and through the Cajon Pass. That shift will warm the coast and valleys, with highs near the mid-70s on Friday and upper-70s to low-80s inland over the weekend, while the lower deserts head into the 90s.
Timing And What To Do
Patchy coastal fog is possible overnight into the mornings, with clearer afternoons typical of spring. Saturday is expected to be mostly sunny and warmer, a solid setup for outdoor plans if you do not mind a bit of lingering breeze in the usual wind-prone spots.
Mariners and backcountry travelers should check local forecasts before heading out. NWS guidance currently shows no hazardous marine conditions through Monday, but gusty winds can still kick up choppy seas. If you plan to drive through exposed passes this afternoon or Friday morning, leave extra travel time and secure loose items before you hit the road.
