San Diego, December 26, 2025
A second wave of a powerful winter storm is set to impact San Diego County, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding risks. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions. The forecast anticipates significant rainfall and wind gusts up to 40 mph, with a flood watch in effect. Preparations are ongoing, including clearing storm drains and providing free sandbags. The initial phase of the storm caused power outages affecting thousands and resulted in a fatal incident. Residents are encouraged to monitor local weather updates.
San Diego County Prepares for Second Wave of Winter Storm
San Diego, CA – A second wave of a powerful winter storm is set to impact San Diego County on Friday, December 26, 2025, bringing additional heavy rain, strong winds, and potential flooding risks. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the storm system moves through the region.
Storm Details and Forecast
The incoming storm is expected to deliver significant rainfall across San Diego County, with precipitation rates between a half-inch to an inch per hour. The heaviest rainfall is anticipated to occur during the day on Friday, with showers tapering off by the evening. Wind gusts up to 40 mph are possible, particularly in coastal areas and valleys. Snow levels are projected to remain above 6,000 feet, reducing the risk of snow-related hazards at lower elevations. However, mountain communities may experience snowfall and hazardous driving conditions. A flood watch remains in effect through Friday evening, with the highest risk of flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Residents are advised to avoid driving through flooded roadways and to stay updated on local weather conditions.
Impact on San Diego County
The initial phase of the storm, which began on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, resulted in widespread power outages affecting approximately 10,000 residents in communities including Ocean Beach, Lemon Grove, Mission Valley, National City, Chula Vista, Clairemont, and Del Mar. The outages were caused by downed trees and power lines due to strong winds and heavy rainfall. Additionally, a fatality occurred in City Heights when a large tree fell, leading to the death of a man.
Preparations and Safety Measures
In response to the storm, the City of San Diego has been actively cleaning storm drains and inlets to prevent flooding. Residents are encouraged to clear debris from storm drains and gutters around their properties and to secure outdoor items that could be affected by strong winds. The County of San Diego has also provided free sandbags at various fire stations to assist with flood prevention efforts.
Background Context
This storm is part of a series of atmospheric river events impacting California during the holiday season. The initial storm brought the wettest Christmas to downtown Los Angeles in 54 years, with rainfall totals exceeding 2 inches in some areas. The National Weather Service has issued flood watches and warnings across the state, urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential flooding and other weather-related hazards.
Residents are advised to monitor local weather updates and follow guidance from local authorities to ensure safety during the ongoing storm conditions.
FAQ
What is the expected impact of the second wave of the winter storm on San Diego County?
The second wave of the winter storm is expected to bring significant rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding risks to San Diego County on Friday, December 26, 2025. Residents should stay informed and take necessary precautions as the storm system moves through the region.
What precautions should residents take during the storm?
Residents are advised to clear debris from storm drains and gutters around their properties, secure outdoor items that could be affected by strong winds, and avoid driving through flooded roadways. Staying updated on local weather conditions and following guidance from local authorities is crucial for safety during the storm.
How can residents prepare for potential flooding?
The County of San Diego has provided free sandbags at various fire stations to assist with flood prevention efforts. Residents can utilize these resources to help protect their properties from potential flooding during the storm.
What is an atmospheric river, and how does it affect California?
An atmospheric river is a narrow corridor of concentrated moisture in the atmosphere that can lead to heavy rainfall and flooding when it makes landfall. California has experienced several atmospheric river events during the holiday season, resulting in significant rainfall and increased flood risks across the state.
Where can residents find more information about the storm and safety measures?
Residents can monitor local weather updates and follow guidance from local authorities to stay informed about the storm’s progression and safety measures. The National Weather Service and local news outlets provide timely information and updates on weather conditions and advisories.
Key Features of the Winter Storm Impacting San Diego County
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Storm Timing | Second wave of the winter storm expected to impact San Diego County on Friday, December 26, 2025. |
| Expected Conditions | Significant rainfall, strong winds with gusts up to 40 mph, and potential flooding risks. |
| Flood Watch | In effect through Friday evening, with the highest risk of flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas. |
| Power Outages | Approximately 10,000 residents affected by outages due to downed trees and power lines from strong winds and heavy rainfall. |
| Safety Measures | Residents advised to clear debris from storm drains and gutters, secure outdoor items, and avoid driving through flooded roadways. |
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