Rainfall Leads to Dozens of San Diego County Car Accidents

SAN DIEGO COUNTY -- A late autumn storm brought downpours to San Diego County on Nov. 21, which led to an uptick of crashes on area roadways.

Among the top rainfall amounts collected around San Diego County in a 24-hour period ending at 8 a.m. were 1.59 inches of rain on Palomar Mountain; 1.32 in Escondido; 1.04 near Julian; .99 of an inch in Pine Hills; .93 in Alpine; .92 in Descanso; 85 in Poway; .78 on Mt. Laguna and in Vista; .68 in Santee; .65 in Fallbrook; .56 in Encinitas; .54 in Chula Vista; and .52 in San Diego, according to the National Weather Service. Forecasters said the showers would diminish throughout the day.

The rain contributed to numerous traffic accidents on local freeways and in unincorporated areas. The California Highway Patrol usually logs about 140 crashes on days without inclement weather but received reports of 113 between midnight and 8 a.m.

Gusty winds could also cause problems or delays for motorists because blowing sand and dust may impede visibility. A wind advisory for the mountains and deserts warning of winds of 20 to 30 miles per hour and gusts of 50 to 60 mph was to expire at 8 p.m.

Along the San Diego County coastline, a high surf advisory will remain in effect until 6 p.m. Forecasters said waves and surf of 5 to 8 feet would be possible, as would strong rip currents.

Drier and warmer weather is expected Tuesday through Thanksgiving, according to the weather service.

By City News Service/Image via Shutterstock