San Diego, Calif. – Powerful waves are crashing onto Southern California beaches today, sending spray over the shoreline and creating hazardous conditions for swimmers, surfers, and anyone walking too close to the surf. While inland neighborhoods enjoy another warm summer day, the coast remains under a prolonged High Surf Advisory that continues through Tuesday night.
According to the National Weather Service in San Diego, the High Surf Advisory remains in effect until 11 p.m. PDT Tuesday for the San Diego County and Orange County coastlines. South-facing beaches can expect breaking waves of 4 to 7 feet, with isolated sets reaching 8 feet. A south swell of 4 to 5 feet with a 12- to 13-second period will continue to drive dangerous surf conditions.
The biggest concern today is the heightened risk of powerful rip currents, especially at south-facing beaches. Strong longshore currents are also expected at west-facing beaches, increasing the danger for inexperienced swimmers and creating challenging conditions even for experienced surfers.
Beachgoers should stay well back from crashing waves, keep children within arm’s reach near the water, and always swim near staffed lifeguard towers. Minor beach erosion and localized tidal overflow are also possible around the time of high tide.
Away from the coastline, San Diego enjoys a quieter weather pattern. Mostly sunny skies return this afternoon with temperatures near 80 degrees, followed by another pleasant day Tuesday with highs around 81 degrees. Wednesday remains mostly sunny with temperatures holding near 80 degrees as surf conditions gradually improve after the advisory expires.
No thunderstorms are expected across coastal San Diego through midweek, and travel conditions on Interstate 5, Interstate 8, and State Route 75 remain favorable. However, drivers heading toward beach communities should anticipate heavier parking demand and occasional delays near popular coastal access points.
Looking farther ahead, temperatures remain close to seasonal averages through the week, with climate outlooks favoring above-normal warmth returning later next week across Southern California.
Planning a trip to the beach today or Tuesday? Let us know what the surf looks like where you are.
Five-Day Forecast for San Diego, California
- Monday: Mostly sunny. High 80°, low 69°.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High 81°, low 69°.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny. High 80°, low 69°.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny. High 81°, low 69°.
- Friday: Mostly cloudy early, becoming gradually sunny. High 80°, low 68°.
