San Diego, December 23, 2025
San Diego County is bracing for a powerful storm system on Christmas Eve, with heavy rain and flooding anticipated. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch, urging residents to prepare. Rainfall rates of 0.50 to 1 inch per hour are projected, with travel conditions worsening. Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to take precautions and stay informed about updates.
San Diego Prepares for Christmas Eve Storm: Heavy Rain and Flooding Expected
San Diego, CA – San Diego County is gearing up for a significant storm system set to impact the region on Christmas Eve. The anticipated atmospheric river is expected to bring heavy rainfall and potential flooding, prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue a flood watch from 4 a.m. on December 24 until 1 a.m. on December 25, 2025. As adverse weather conditions loom, residents are encouraged to prepare accordingly.
Storm Details
The storm is poised to deliver widespread moderate to heavy rainfall across San Diego County. The heaviest rainfall is expected to occur late Wednesday morning into the evening, with predicted peak rainfall rates ranging from 0.50 to 1 inch per hour. Additional scattered locally heavy showers may persist into Thursday, with the impacts of any further rain likely to be more localized. Mounting concerns include flooding from excessive rainfall, which could arise from late Tuesday night through late Wednesday night.
Regions including coastal areas, valleys, mountains, and deserts are forecasted to receive significant precipitation, affecting cities such as Chula Vista, Poway, Oceanside, Carlsbad, and San Diego. Residents in flood-prone locations are urged to take precautionary measures to safeguard their properties and ensure their safety should flooding occur. The rain is projected to diminish by Saturday, with expected cooler temperatures lingering in the 60s for the weekend.
Travel Implications
As the heavy rainfall approaches, travel conditions may deteriorate significantly. Hazardous driving conditions resulting from slick roads and reduced visibility pose traffic risks across the region. The California Highway Patrol advises that drivers should maintain vigilance during the storm, keeping headlights on, avoiding flooded roadways, and reducing speed to navigate safely. Snowfall is also predicted for mountain areas, potentially complicating travel further.
Safety Precautions
In light of impending weather conditions, residents and travelers alike are strongly encouraged to stay informed about the latest updates. Monitoring local news and weather reports will be essential to understanding the potential severity of the storm. It is advisable to avoid driving through flooded areas and to exercise extreme caution on the roads, especially in mountainous regions where winter driving conditions can be particularly treacherous.
Background Context
December typically brings mild weather to San Diego, with average daytime temperatures around 66°F (19°C) and average monthly rainfall of approximately 1.5 inches (37 mm). However, this storm is expected to be among the strongest atmospheric river systems seen in recent years, underscoring the need for residents to remain aware of and prepared for unexpected weather events, especially during the holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is an atmospheric river?
An atmospheric river is a narrow corridor of concentrated moisture in the atmosphere, capable of producing significant rainfall over a region.
When is the storm expected to impact San Diego?
The storm is projected to begin affecting San Diego County on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, with the heaviest rainfall anticipated on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
How much rainfall is expected?
Coastal and valley areas may receive between 2 to 4 inches of rain, with higher amounts possible in some locations. Mountainous regions could experience snowfall, with snow levels potentially lowering to 5,500 feet above sea level.
What are the travel implications?
The heavy rainfall poses significant risks for travelers, including slick roadways, reduced visibility, and potential flooding and landslides. Travelers are advised to exercise caution, especially in mountainous regions where winter driving conditions may prevail.
What safety precautions should be taken?
Residents and travelers should stay informed about the latest weather updates, avoid driving through flooded areas, and exercise caution on the roads, particularly in mountainous regions where winter driving conditions may exist.
Key Features of the Storm
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Storm Type | Atmospheric river |
| Expected Impact Period | December 23 to December 25, 2025 |
| Regions Affected | San Diego County, including coastal areas, valleys, mountains, and deserts |
| Projected Rainfall | 2 to 4 inches along the coast and in the valleys; higher amounts possible in some areas |
| Potential Snowfall | Snow levels in mountainous regions may drop to 5,500 feet above sea level |
| Travel Implications | Potential travel disruptions due to heavy rainfall, slick roadways, and possible flooding |
| Safety Precautions | Stay informed about weather conditions, exercise caution on the roads, and be aware of potential flooding and winter driving conditions in mountainous regions |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
