A strong storm hammering Northern California will dive south, weakening as it reaches San Diego, but will still bring widespread impact to the county tomorrow with rain, wind and high surf.
Rain first arrives in the northwest quadrant of the county as early as 3am then moves southwest becoming widespread by 7am, just in time for the morning commute which will likely wreak havoc on the roadways. Rain will be mostly light to moderate with periods of heavy rain with showers tapering off into the afternoon drying out by tomorrow night.
Rainfall totals will average between .40 to 1.50" from the coast to the mountains with local amounts up to 3" in the northern mountains. The highest rainfall totals will be in the far north county with lighter totals the farther south you go.
Gusty winds will build ahead of this storm overnight continuing into Thursday. A Wind Advisory will be in effect from the coast to the mountains from 2am to noon Thursday for southerly winds of 15 to 25mph with gusts up to 35mph.
Since we've already picked up significant rain since last week the ground is saturated thus this additional rainfall will lead to a greater threat for runoff and localized flooding. Gusty winds also mean the threat of downed trees will be higher due to the saturated ground so be sure to pay attention to your surroundings and don't leave your vehicle near trees that may fall.
Surf will also build as this storm rolls through with a High Surf Warning and Coastal Flood Advisory in effect from noon tomorrow until 6pm Friday for dangerously large waves of 10 to 16 feet and strong rip currents. Minor coastal flooding of low-lying areas like beach parking lots, boardwalks and parks will be a concern and significant beach erosion can be expected. On top of the dangerous waves, you should avoid going in the water until 72 hours after it rains due to bacteria runoff.
Showers taper off Thursday night with dry conditions Friday and Saturday. A weaker storm will move into Northern and Central California Sunday into Monday which will keep around at least a slight chance for some drizzle to a few showers locally. Another storm will bring a chance for rain on Tuesday with a few more chances of rain by the end of next week and the following week. Stay with the Pinpoint Weather Team as we track this series of storms that will continue well into January.
Our water year surplus continues to grow, as of Wednesday morning we have received 4.15" of rain at Lindbergh Field, where San Diego keeps their records, which is a .91" surplus for what is normal.
Thursday's Highs:
Coast: 58-62°
Inland: 53-62°
Mountains: 40-53°
Deserts: 63-66°
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