San Diego, Calif. – Waves are rolling onto Southern California beaches with more force than they appear, and the biggest danger may be hidden beneath the surface. Strong rip currents and powerful longshore currents are creating hazardous swimming conditions along the San Diego coastline as beach crowds head outdoors this Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in San Diego, a Beach Hazards Statement remains in effect through Sunday evening for San Diego County Coastal Areas and Orange County Coastal Areas. Surf of 3 to 5 feet is expected, with occasional sets reaching 6 feet, especially on southwest-facing beaches.
The primary concern is not the wave height itself but the dangerous currents moving through the surf zone. Lifeguards warn that rip currents can quickly pull swimmers away from shore, while longshore currents may sweep beachgoers along the coastline unexpectedly.
Away from the beaches, weather conditions remain relatively quiet across San Diego County. Morning clouds are gradually giving way to brighter skies this afternoon, with temperatures topping out near 71 degrees. Light west winds could gust to around 20 mph during the afternoon.
Monday and Tuesday bring a familiar June pattern. Night and morning marine clouds will continue before partial sunshine develops each afternoon. Temperatures slowly edge upward into the low to mid-70s through midweek.
Drivers along Interstate 5, Pacific Highway, and coastal routes may encounter areas of reduced visibility during periods of marine layer clouds early each morning. Conditions improve by midday.
While severe storms and flooding dominate headlines across the Plains and Midwest, Southern California’s primary public safety concern remains along the coastline. If heading to the beach, swim near staffed lifeguard towers and stay out of the water if conditions appear rough.
Five Day Forecast for San Diego, California
- Sunday: Gradual clearing, high 71°F, low 63°F
- Monday: Partly sunny, high 72°F, low 62°F
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, high 73°F, low 65°F
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 75°F, low 65°F
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 75°F, low 64°F
