Thanksgiving Storm To Bring Rain, Snow To San Diego County

SAN DIEGO — Sunny skies are expected Tuesday throughout San Diego County before a major storm system arrives Wednesday and brings rain and snow through Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

The agency has issued a flash flood watch that will be in effect from 4 a.m. Wednesday through 10 p.m. Thursday in the coastal areas and inland valleys.

"A flash flood watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding," NWS officials warned. "Flash flooding is a very dangerous situation. Monitor forecasts and be prepared to take action should flash flood warnings be issued."

Rainfall totals through Friday could reach 3 inches in the San Diego County mountains, 2 to 2.5 inches in the inland valleys, 1.5 to 2 inches in coastal areas and less than two-thirds of an inch in the deserts, NWS meteorologist Miguel Miller said.

The bulk of the rain is expected Wednesday evening, but showers will be consistent in some areas on Thursday as well, Miller said.

A winter storm warning will be in effect from 4 a.m. Wednesday to 10 p.m. Friday in the mountains above 3,000 feet.

"A winter storm warning for snow means severe winter weather conditions are expected," NWS officials warned. "If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of emergency."

Snow levels will remain above 5,000 feet through Wednesday night, then drop to about 3,500 feet by Thursday night, Miller said. Mount Laguna, Palomar Mountain and Cuyamaca Mountain could get up to 12 inches of snow at their highest peaks before the storm system makes its exit by Saturday.

Thunderstorms will also be possible Wednesday night through late Thursday night throughout the county, forecasters said.

High temperatures Tuesday could reach 69 degrees near the coast and inland, 66 in the western valleys, 62 near the foothills, 54 in the mountains and 64 in the deserts.