San Diego, CA — Residents across San Diego County are in for a noticeable shift in weather this Thanksgiving week, with temperatures climbing well above seasonal averages before a sharp cool-down and potential storm system arrives late in the weekend.
Warm and Sunny Start to the Holiday Week
Forecasters say a strong high-pressure system building over the Southwest will drive temperatures 5 to 15 degrees above normal on Wednesday and Thursday. The warmest days of the week are expected to fall right in line with Thanksgiving plans, delivering mild, comfortable conditions for outdoor gatherings, travel, and holiday events.
Meteorologists note that offshore winds will develop from Tuesday into Wednesday, bringing easterly gusts between 20 and 35 mph across inland valleys and foothill regions. These dry winds will also lower humidity levels, but experts say recent rainfall will help reduce significant fire risk. Even so, officials are reminding the public to stay fire-safe as a precaution during the holiday.
Thanksgiving Forecast: Warm for the Coast, Hot Inland
This year’s Thanksgiving is shaping up to be especially pleasant, with warm temperatures countywide. Here’s what residents can expect:
- Coastal Areas: Low to mid-70s
- Inland Valleys: Upper-70s to mid-80s
- Mountains: Low to mid-60s
- Deserts: Mid to upper-70s
These temperatures offer one of the warmest Thanksgiving holidays in recent years, particularly for inland communities, where mid-80s warmth is more typical of early fall than late November, as per the reports.
Black Friday Brings a Slight Cooldown
By Black Friday, temperatures are expected to fall 5 to 10 degrees, though conditions will remain mild and pleasant across San Diego County. Highs will generally stay in the 60s and 70s, making for comfortable weather for shoppers, hikers, and holiday travelers.
Major Pattern Change Expected Over the Weekend
A much more dramatic shift arrives by Sunday, when a developing storm system is forecast to move toward the West Coast. While meteorologists caution there is still considerable uncertainty regarding the storm’s exact track, its arrival could bring showers, stronger winds, and even high-elevation snow.
This timing is notable, as any incoming rain or mountain snow may affect post-holiday travel late Sunday into Monday.
Here’s how temperatures will trend by the end of the weekend:
- Coast: Low to mid-60s
- Valleys: Low to mid-60s
- Deserts: Low to mid-60s
- Mountains: Plunging into the 40s, with potential snowfall above higher elevations
Forecasters emphasize that even a slight shift in the storm’s trajectory could determine whether San Diego sees light showers or a more substantial weather event.
Travelers Encouraged to Monitor Forecast Updates
With millions of Californians expected to travel after Thanksgiving, weather officials are recommending that residents keep a close eye on updated forecasts, especially if they plan to drive through mountain passes or travel late Sunday or Monday.
Though uncertainty remains, meteorologists say the potential for wet roads, reduced visibility, and snow in higher terrain is enough to warrant early caution.
Are you hoping for warm holiday weather or looking forward to the cooler stormy pattern? Share your thoughts in the comments — and tell us how you’re spending Thanksgiving week!
