San Diego, January 8, 2026
San Diego has recorded over 3 inches of rainfall within the first five days of January, marking a historic high since 1939. This unprecedented precipitation has caused significant flooding and power outages across the city, prompting multiple severe weather warnings. Residents are urged to take precautions and stay informed as emergency services respond to swift-water rescues and other related incidents in affected neighborhoods.
San Diego, CA – Historic Rainfall and Severe Weather Warnings
San Diego has experienced unprecedented rainfall in early January 2026, with over 3 inches recorded at the San Diego International Airport, marking the highest total for the first five days of January since records began in 1939. This surge in precipitation has led to significant flooding, power outages, and the issuance of multiple severe weather warnings.
Record-Breaking Rainfall
Between January 1 and 5, San Diego received more than 3 inches of rain, surpassing the previous record for this period. This substantial rainfall has contributed to widespread flooding across the region, affecting neighborhoods such as Mission Hills and Southcrest. Residents have reported submerged vehicles and damaged properties due to the rising waters.
Severe Weather Warnings Issued
In response to the severe weather conditions, the National Weather Service has issued several warnings:
- Wind Advisory: Effective from 8 PM on January 7 to 1 PM on January 8, forecasting west winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph in areas including Apple and Lucerne Valleys, Coachella Valley, and San Diego County Deserts. Residents are advised to secure loose objects and exercise caution while driving, especially high-profile vehicles.
- High Wind Warning: Issued for the San Bernardino County Mountains from 10 AM on January 8 to 1 PM on January 10, predicting north winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 70 mph near the Cajon Pass. The strongest winds are expected on the coastal slopes and mountain foothills. Due to recent rains and saturated soils, there is an increased risk of fallen trees and power outages. Travelers are urged to exercise caution, particularly in areas below the Cajon Pass.
Impact on the Community
The heavy rainfall and strong winds have led to numerous swift-water rescues and power outages affecting thousands of residents. Emergency services have been actively responding to calls for assistance, and local authorities are urging the public to stay informed and adhere to safety guidelines during this period of severe weather.
Background Context
San Diego’s climate is typically characterized by mild, dry conditions. However, the recent storms have deviated from this norm, bringing substantial rainfall and severe weather events. The community is advised to remain vigilant and prepared for ongoing weather challenges as forecasts indicate the potential for continued adverse conditions in the coming days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current rainfall total in San Diego?
As of January 5, 2026, San Diego has recorded over 3 inches of rain, the highest total for the first five days of January since records began in 1939.
Which areas are under severe weather warnings?
Severe weather warnings have been issued for the following areas:
- Wind Advisory: Apple and Lucerne Valleys, Coachella Valley, and San Diego County Deserts.
- High Wind Warning: San Bernardino County Mountains, including areas near the Cajon Pass.
What precautions should residents take during these conditions?
Residents are advised to secure loose objects, exercise caution while driving—especially high-profile vehicles—and stay informed through official channels for updates on weather conditions and safety guidelines.
Key Features of the Recent Weather Events
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Record Rainfall | Over 3 inches recorded at San Diego International Airport between January 1 and 5, 2026, the highest total for this period since 1939. |
| Severe Weather Warnings | Wind Advisory and High Wind Warning issued for various regions, including San Bernardino County Mountains and San Diego County Deserts. |
| Community Impact | Numerous swift-water rescues and power outages affecting thousands of residents. |
| Background | San Diego’s typically mild, dry climate has experienced significant deviations due to recent storms, leading to substantial rainfall and severe weather events. |
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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.
