San Diego is gearing up for a powerful storm that could bring flooding, hazardous road conditions, and gusty winds strong enough to down power lines. With a Flood Watch already in place for Thursday afternoon through early Friday, residents should get ready for potential disruptions to travel and daily life. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect and how to stay safe.
When Will the Storm Hit and How Much Rain Will We Get?
The storm will begin with light rainfall on Thursday afternoon, but the most intense showers will hit Thursday evening and continue through the night into early Friday morning. This isn’t your typical drizzle—forecasters are predicting significant rainfall totals:
- 1.5 to 2.5 inches of rain in coastal and valley areas
- 2.5 to 5 inches in the mountainous regions
With this much rain expected in such a short period, flash flooding is a serious concern. Low-lying areas, creeks, rivers, and streets prone to poor drainage are at the greatest risk. Roads could quickly become impassable, and homes in flood-prone zones should be ready for rising water levels.
Winds Will Pack a Punch: 35 to 55 MPH Gusts Could Cause Damage
Along with heavy rain, San Diego will face gusty winds that could cause additional hazards. Winds are expected to reach 35 to 55 mph, especially in desert mountain slopes and the inland desert regions. These strong gusts could knock down tree limbs and power lines, leading to potential power outages across the county.
Drivers of high-profile vehicles, such as trucks and RVs, should be especially cautious on highways and bridges where wind gusts could cause swaying or loss of control. If you have outdoor furniture, trash bins, or decorations, secure them to prevent them from being blown away or damaged.
Flood Risks and Potential Travel Disruptions
Urban flooding will likely be one of the biggest issues for San Diego during this storm. With heavy downpours overwhelming drainage systems, streets could turn into rivers within minutes. Areas with poor drainage, such as underpasses and basements, will be particularly vulnerable.
If you’re planning to travel, be prepared for significant delays on the roads. Public transit may also face disruptions, so check for updates before heading out. Officials strongly advise against driving through flooded streets, as even a few inches of fast-moving water can stall your car or sweep it away.
Watch for Landslides in Mountainous Areas
In the hills and mountains surrounding San Diego, the risk of shallow landslides is high. With the ground already saturated from recent rains, this incoming storm could trigger mudslides and debris flows, particularly in areas with steep slopes. If you live in these regions, monitor your surroundings and be ready to evacuate if conditions worsen.
How to Prepare and Stay Safe
- Have an emergency kit ready: Stock it with essentials like flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, and any medications you may need.
- Avoid unnecessary travel: Stay off the roads if you can, especially during the peak of the storm on Thursday night and early Friday morning.
- Stay informed: Monitor local weather alerts, and don’t ignore flood warnings. If authorities issue evacuation orders, follow them immediately.
- Secure outdoor items: Bring in anything that could be blown around by strong winds.
- Never drive through floodwaters: Just 6 inches of water can cause you to lose control of your car, and 12 inches can float most vehicles.
What Happens After the Storm?
The heavy rain is expected to taper off by Friday morning, but lingering showers could still pop up through the day. Roads will likely remain slick and potentially hazardous, and any standing water could take time to drain.
Winds should die down by Friday afternoon, but crews will be busy repairing damage, clearing fallen trees, and restoring power in areas affected by outages. If you live in a flood-prone zone, keep an eye on local updates, as additional runoff from higher elevations could still cause minor flooding after the main storm has passed.
A Quick Look at the Forecast:
- Tuesday, Feb. 11: Cloudy with a mix of sun. High: 59°F (15°C), Low: 51°F (11°C)
- Wednesday, Feb. 12: Mostly cloudy with a passing shower or two. High: 58°F (14°C), Low: 56°F (13°C)
- Thursday, Feb. 13: Heavy rain in the evening, with strong winds. High: 61°F (16°C), Low: 57°F (14°C)
- Friday, Feb. 14: Lingering showers with cloudy skies. High: 62°F (17°C), Low: 50°F (10°C)
- Saturday, Feb. 15: Partly sunny. High: 63°F (17°C), Low: 50°F (10°C)
Final Advice: Take This Storm Seriously
This is not a storm to ignore. Flooding, wind damage, and power outages are real possibilities, and preparing now can make all the difference. If you live in an area prone to flooding, have a plan in place, and don’t hesitate to leave if things start to get dangerous.
Check in on your neighbors, especially the elderly or those who may need help. And remember: if you see floodwaters, turn around—don’t try to drive through them.
