San Diego is waking up to clear skies and a fast-building heat-and-wind setup Thursday, with temperatures near 59 degrees early and a high near 88. A Heat Advisory begins at 10 a.m. for coastal San Diego County and runs through 8 p.m. Saturday, according to the National Weather Service San Diego, while Santa Ana winds are expected to strengthen into Friday.
Friday Brings The Strongest Winds
Thursday will stay sunny and dry, but Friday is expected to bring the warmest conditions of the stretch, with a high near 94 and gusts reaching 25 mph around the city. Across the broader region, the National Weather Service says gusts could reach 35 to 55 mph in inland valleys and locally exceed 65 mph near mountain passes and foothills.
The hot, dry air and strong winds will increase fire-weather concerns in areas with abundant dry vegetation. People spending time outside should secure loose items, avoid activities that could create sparks and plan strenuous work for the morning or evening.
Beach Hazards Continue Through Thursday Afternoon
A Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect through 2 p.m. Thursday for San Diego County coastal areas, as reported by the Orange County Register. Elevated tides of roughly 6.5 to 7 feet, surf of 3 to 5 feet with sets reaching 6 feet, minor coastal flooding and beach erosion are possible.
Strong rip currents will make swimming dangerous for inexperienced swimmers, and low-lying beach parking areas could see minor tidal overflow. Conditions should ease after the late-morning high tide, but beachgoers should still use caution near the water.
Cooler Weather Arrives Sunday
Saturday will remain sunny and warm near 90 degrees before temperatures begin easing Sunday, with a high near 87 and Monday topping out around 82. As the offshore flow weakens, some coastal neighborhoods could also see early-morning fog return Sunday.
The bigger cooldown arrives Tuesday, when the high is expected to reach about 74 degrees and a slight chance of showers begins after 5 p.m. Rain chances rise to around 45% Tuesday night and Wednesday, with Wednesday's high near 73.
Heat Precautions Remain Important
During the advisory, residents should drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned spaces when possible and check on older adults, neighbors and anyone especially vulnerable to heat illness. Lightweight clothing and reduced midday exertion will matter most as the city moves through its hottest and windiest period Friday.
