Breezier, wetter weather is expected for San Diego County this week, with a gradual warming trend over the holidays leading up to next weekend. Coastal San Diego may see some light drizzle early in the week, accompanied by light winds and partly cloudy conditions with highs ranging from the low to upper 60s.
On Tuesday, Christmas Eve, the National Weather Service stated, "a quick-moving trough of low pressure will move across the West Coast bringing breezy and wet conditions to the region." The chance of light showers is increasing for all areas except the deserts on Christmas Eve. Forecasters also noted, "Onshore westerly winds will increase Tuesday and peak Tuesday night, strongest in the mountains, through passes, and down to the deserts." Peak wind gusts are expected to reach 35-45 mph, with some areas seeing gusts up to 55 mph.
Temperatures are anticipated to climb markedly, reaching the 60s by Christmas afternoon, as rain chances also increase with the warm front moving through. "Our next best chance for rain will arrive on Christmas morning, with showers continuing throughout the day," forecasters mentioned.
Closer to San Diego's mountains, there will be light rain expected Tuesday, with partly cloudy skies and highs around 60 degrees, alongside warnings of areas of fog possible for western valleys and near the coast.
Meanwhile, Monday's surf forecast calls for high-risk rip currents, with wave heights forecasted at 6 to 10 feet along the county's coast. Forecasters advise cautious swimming conditions due to the large breaking waves, which could reach up to 13 feet. Small craft advisories will be issued until at least 4 AM Christmas morning, indicating possible dangerous conditions for inexperienced swimmers.
Further inland, areas such as valleys will experience partly cloudy skies throughout the week, with highs ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s and just slightly above-average temperatures. Rain showers are likely on Christmas Day but will not last the whole day, which could allow for dry intervals.
Weather reports indicate it could be milder beyond just Christmas, with temperatures potentially running near the 60s. "Milder weather is expected for the remainder of 2024, but some rain will return starting on Christmas," noted local meteorologists.
Comparatively, colder parts of the state, such as the Stateline area, will see highs just reaching the upper 30s on Christmas Eve, with minimal chance of snow accumulation making for less of the typical winter wonderland during the holidays. By mid-week, widespread rain is expected to increase, and temperatures are anticipated to warm up significantly.
While Christmas Day brings the promise of both warmer weather and rain, forecasters are advising residents to stay updated with their local weather stations for any changes as the holidays approach. Observations suggest continued mild temperatures will carry through New Year's, albeit with chances of rain.
City News Service and Scripps Media contributed detailed forecasts, emphasizing the variability expected across regions, stressing the need for careful preparations whether for outdoor celebrations or holiday travels.
