If you’re used to San Diego’s famously mild and sunny weather, get ready for a big change. A strong cold front is moving in, bringing cooler temperatures, gusty winds, and even some rain, disrupting the city’s usual early March warmth.
After weeks of perfectly pleasant beach weather, this sudden shift will leave many reaching for jackets and umbrellas. Temperatures are set to drop below normal, with daytime highs struggling to reach the low 60s and nighttime lows dipping into the upper 40s. And yes, rain is on the way, so don’t expect your usual sunny San Diego skies midweek
Why Is San Diego Suddenly Getting Cold and Wet?
March in San Diego is typically known for mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine, with average highs around 66°F (19°C). But a Pacific cold front is barreling down the coast, bringing with it cooler air, increased cloud cover, and occasional rain showers.
This system will push into Southern California early in the week, with clouds thickening by Tuesday and rain arriving by Wednesday afternoon. Though this won’t be a full-blown storm, scattered showers could make for wet commutes and slick roads, especially in the early morning and evening hours.
Wind gusts will also pick up, making it feel even colder than the actual temperatures suggest. While San Diego won’t see the kind of brutal weather that hits other parts of the country, this shift is still a big deal for a city that rarely sees rain for more than a few days at a time.
Here’s the Full Weather Breakdown for the Week
- Monday, March 3: A mix of sun and clouds, breezy in the afternoon. High of 60°F (15°C), low of 51°F (10°C).
- Tuesday, March 4: Partly cloudy and cool, slightly warmer than Monday. High of 63°F (17°C), low of 50°F (10°C).
- Wednesday, March 5: Cloudy skies with scattered afternoon showers. High of 63°F (17°C), low of 52°F (11°C).
- Thursday, March 6: Overcast and breezy with occasional light rain. High of 62°F (17°C), low of 49°F (9°C).
- Friday, March 7: Morning showers possible, then clearing with sunshine. High of 65°F (18°C), low of 50°F (10°C).
- Saturday, March 8: Back to sunny and warm! High of 69°F (21°C), low of 51°F (10°C).
How to Stay Comfortable During This Weather Shift
San Diegans aren’t exactly used to cold and wet conditions, so a little preparation will go a long way. Here’s how to handle the unexpected chill and rain this week:
- Keep an umbrella and light jacket with you. Showers will be off-and-on, but when they hit, they’ll be enough to get you soaked.
- Be extra cautious on the roads. Even a small amount of rain can make road surfaces dangerously slick, especially after long dry periods.
- Close your windows at night. Temperatures will drop into the 40s in some areas, making for some surprisingly chilly mornings.
- Dress in layers. Mornings and evenings will feel cold, but daytime temperatures will still be manageable.
When Will the Sunshine Return?
The good news? This cold, damp spell won’t last long! By the weekend, San Diego will be back to its usual sunny self, with temperatures climbing toward the 70s by Saturday.
So while this week may be a shock to the system, it’s only temporary. Stay prepared, stay warm, and enjoy the rare rainy day in America’s Finest City
