California — Before sunrise, a long band of cloud stretches over San Diego’s coastline, turning the early sky a deep, stormy blue. Streetlights shimmer against wet pavement, and a cool, damp breeze carries the unmistakable scent of an approaching Pacific storm. The city wakes to a Flood Watch, Beach Hazards Statement, and a day already primed for heavy rainfall.
A powerful plume of moisture pushes ashore, bringing steady rain this morning with embedded thunderstorms possible. The National Weather Service warns that periods of intense rainfall could overwhelm poor-drainage streets from Chula Vista to Escondido. Drivers should avoid low-water crossings, canyon dips, and underpasses along I-5, I-805, and SR-163, where pooling water forms fastest. Early holiday travelers should expect delays at SAN as visibility and winds shift during heavier bursts.
To be fair, November storms aren’t unusual, yet this one arrives with notable force. Models hint at narrow cells capable of dropping one inch of rain in a short window. That raises the risk of flash flooding and debris flows, especially near burn scars east of the city. Anyone living along slopes should monitor runoff patterns and stay ready for quick changes.
Coastal conditions worsen through mid-day. A west-northwest swell generates surf of 4 to 7 feet, with sets near 8 feet along favored west-facing beaches. Strong rip currents create hazardous swimming conditions, and the combination of storm surge and choppy seas will continue through the afternoon.
Rain intensity eases Sunday, though scattered showers linger. Monday brings another round of rain—less intense but still impactful for morning commuters and early holiday travel.
