San Diego, CA – The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that San Diego County will continue to see slight chances of afternoon and early evening thunderstorms through Thursday, particularly in the mountains and deserts. The storms are fueled by lingering tropical moisture from a system off the coast of Baja California.
Marine Layer and Morning Fog
Forecasters added that the marine layer will deepen overnight, leading to patchy fog across some inland valleys along the I-15 corridor in the early morning hours Thursday. Commuters traveling along this route should exercise caution as visibility may be reduced during the morning rush.
Temperature Outlook
Temperatures across the region are expected to vary widely depending on elevation and proximity to the coast:
- Coast: 75–80 degrees
- Inland areas: 83–87 degrees
- Western valleys: 85–90 degrees
- Foothills: 89–94 degrees
- Mountains: 82–90 degrees
- Deserts: 98–102 degrees
According to the reports, these conditions reflect the typical contrast between cooler coastal climates and the hotter interior regions of Southern California.
Chance of Additional Storms
According to the NWS, a slight surge of moisture Thursday could bring isolated thunderstorms in the mountains and deserts, with the potential for lightning, brief heavy rain, and gusty winds. However, the overall trend will begin to shift by Friday, when drier conditions are expected to take hold across the county.
Weekend Forecast: Cooler and Drier
Looking ahead, the weekend weather will bring cooler and drier conditions, with low coastal clouds expected to spread inland during the evenings and early mornings. By Tuesday, high temperatures across much of San Diego County are forecast to dip a few degrees below average as a trough develops over the West Coast.
Staying Safe During Summer Storms
While storms are expected to remain scattered and brief, officials advise residents and hikers in the mountains and deserts to take precautions. Lightning strikes, sudden downpours, and flash flooding are risks during summer thunderstorms. Visitors are urged to check the forecast before heading outdoors and to seek shelter if thunder is heard.
Broader Weather Trends
Meteorologists note that tropical moisture from systems near Baja California frequently influences Southern California’s late summer weather, leading to short-lived storms before a return to more stable conditions. The upcoming trough over the West Coast is expected to reinforce a pattern of cooler-than-average temperatures heading into early next week.
Do you live in the mountains, deserts, or coastal areas of San Diego County? How are you preparing for the shifting weather conditions this week? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
