San Diego woke up under a gray blanket today, with low clouds, cool air and shoreline temperatures stuck in the mid-60s. The marine layer is expected to peel back by midday, trading the gloom for mostly sunny skies and afternoon highs near 75 degrees. Northwest breezes will freshen later in the day, with gusts on exposed routes that feel pleasant on land but make the water choppy.
Beach Hazards Through Friday
A Beach Hazards Statement from the National Weather Service is in effect through Friday, with a south swell pushing surf to 3 to 6 feet and occasional sets up to 7 feet on south-facing beaches, along with a high rip current risk for much of the county, according to NWS San Diego. Hazardous swimming conditions will be most pronounced near jetties, piers and inlets where longshore currents tend to be strongest. If your plans involve the ocean this week, assume rough surf and plan accordingly.
Afternoon Winds And Marine Layer
Expect northwest winds around 5 to 10 mph with gusts up to about 20 mph during the afternoon, along with coastal low clouds that clear back by mid-morning and return overnight. Temperatures will top out in the mid-70s at the shore and run warmer inland, with highs holding fairly steady through midweek before a modest cool-down late in the week. Cyclists and drivers of light vehicles should be ready for gusty spots on exposed roads during the evening commute.
Safety And Beach Tips
Swim only at lifeguarded beaches, follow posted flags, and if you get caught in a rip current, stay calm and swim parallel to shore until you are out of the current instead of trying to fight straight back in. For daily flag status and detailed beach conditions, check the San Diego Lifeguard Service. If your weekend plans depend on being in the surf, consider shifting activities a few miles inland or timing them for late afternoon when onshore winds tend to ease a bit.
