San Diego Weather Alert: Heavy Rain, Snow, Wind, and Flight Disruptions This Week
San Diego County faces a significant weather event this week with heavy rain, snow, high surf, and strong winds. The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory from Monday through Thursday, with dangerous rip currents and surf heights of 8 to 12 feet expected along the coast. Heavy rainfall of 1 to 3 inches is forecasted for inland and coastal areas, with mountain regions receiving 2 to 6 inches, potentially causing minor flooding in flood-prone zones such as Mission Valley, Sorrento Valley, and Southcrest. Snow levels will drop to as low as 3,000 to 5,000 feet, bringing several inches to over a foot of snow to mountain communities like Mount Laguna and Palomar Mountain, making for ideal conditions for winter sports. The storm system is expected to produce gusts up to 45-49 mph, which could impact flight operations at San Diego International Airport, especially on Monday when winds and heavy rain are expected to peak. Forecasters warn of potential delays and disruptions, with additional rain and wind expected into Tuesday and Wednesday. Rain totals could reach 1.5 to 4 inches in some areas, and snow may fall along Interstate 8 east of Alpine. Residents are advised to stay away from flood-prone areas, monitor river levels, and prepare for possible road closures. Sandbags are available at multiple recreation centers across the city, and residents are encouraged to stay informed through local weather updates. The storm's arrival marks a departure from San Diego’s recent dry spell, bringing much-needed precipitation but also posing risks of flooding, erosion, and hazardous beach conditions. The weather pattern is part of an odd winter, alternating between rainy, cool days and warm, sunny periods.
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