Unseasonably warm temperatures are expected in San Diego County this week, defying the winter prediction made by the famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil. The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts a period of warming from Tuesday through Thursday, accompanied by weak to moderate Santa Ana winds.
On Tuesday, high temperatures will range from 71°F to 76°F near the coast, 77°F to 82°F inland, and 80°F to 84°F in the western valleys. The foothills will see temperatures between 76°F and 81°F, while the mountains will experience highs of 64°F to 74°F. The deserts are expected to reach between 81°F and 85°F.
As the week begins, patchy dense fog may linger over coastal waters and affect nearby communities. However, as offshore winds develop on Wednesday, this fog is anticipated to dissipate.
Santa Ana Winds to Impact Local Conditions
The Santa Ana winds are predicted to strengthen by Wednesday and into Thursday, with the strongest gusts expected in the mountains. Some areas may experience gusts exceeding 50 mph, particularly through mountain passes, although these winds are expected to remain below advisory levels.
After this warm spell, conditions are set to cool down from Friday through the weekend as an onshore flow returns to the region. A low-pressure system could bring a potential for showers on Friday afternoon, with a slight chance of thunderstorms. The NWS has indicated that showers may continue into Saturday, depending on the system’s trajectory.
Forecasters are also monitoring the possibility of cooler and wetter weather early next week, as additional weather systems approach San Diego County. This shift in conditions could provide a stark contrast to the warm temperatures experienced earlier in the week, illustrating the unpredictable nature of seasonal weather patterns in the region.
As residents enjoy the warm weather, they should remain aware of the changing conditions and prepare for the potential for rain as the weekend approaches.
