San Diego, CA – San Diego County experienced an unusual surge of record-breaking heat as temperatures climbed 10 to 20 degrees above average, shattering or tying daily records in several inland and mountain communities. While the warmth has felt more like late summer than winter, forecasters say a major weather shift is on the horizon—just in time for Christmas.
Record High Temperatures Set Across the County
Several locations across San Diego County saw daily record highs either set or tied as the heat peaked:
- Alpine – 85°
- Campo – 83°
- Ramona – 85°
- Lake Cuyamaca – 72°
One of the most striking temperature swings occurred in Ramona, where the morning low dipped to just 36 degrees before soaring nearly 50 degrees warmer by the afternoon. Meteorologists say this dramatic warm-up highlights the intensity of the current high-pressure pattern parked over Southern California.
These readings are exceptionally high for mid-December and are more typical of early fall conditions.
Fog Continues to Impact Travel Plans
Despite the warm temperatures, fog remains a persistent concern. Forecasters say patchy fog will develop again into Friday morning, becoming more widespread late Friday night into Saturday morning. Fog is also expected to return into Sunday morning.
Travelers—especially those flying in or out of the region—are advised to check with airlines for potential delays or cancellations due to reduced visibility.
Friday Cools Slightly, But Heat Sticks Around
While Friday will be about 5 degrees cooler for coastal and inland areas, temperatures will still remain well above seasonal averages—by as much as 10 to 20 degrees for many parts of the county.
Heading into the weekend, temperatures will gradually cool but still stay 5 to 15 degrees above average, particularly away from the coast. Forecast highs in the 60s and 70s are expected, and additional record highs remain possible in the mountains and deserts.
Winter Solstice Arrives Despite Summer-Like Feel
Even with the unseasonable warmth, winter is officially approaching. The winter solstice—the astronomical start of winter—will occur on Sunday at 7:03 a.m.
After the solstice, days will slowly begin to lengthen, even though colder and wetter conditions often become more likely across Southern California.
Atmospheric River Could Bring Christmas Rain
Looking ahead, forecasters are closely watching a significant pattern change developing over the eastern Pacific. An atmospheric river is expected to sag south through California, potentially bringing widespread rain to San Diego County.
A few scattered showers could arrive as early as Tuesday afternoon or evening, but the best chance for widespread and impactful rainfall appears to be Christmas Eve into Christmas Day. Rain chances may even linger into Friday following the holiday.
Meteorologists caution that this system is still about a week away, meaning timing and rainfall totals remain uncertain. However, confidence is growing that the region will finally see a return to more seasonal winter weather.
From Records to Rain: A Dramatic Shift Ahead
The contrast between record heat now and the potential for soaking rain by Christmas underscores just how dynamic Southern California’s winter weather can be. Residents are encouraged to enjoy the warmth while preparing for possible wet travel conditions, cooler temperatures, and changing forecasts as the holiday approaches.
Are you enjoying this record-breaking December warmth, or are you ready for rainy Christmas weather in San Diego County? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you’re preparing for the weather shift!
