San Diego Experiences Record Warmth on Thanksgiving

Sunny Thanksgiving day at San Diego beach with warm weather

San Diego, November 28, 2025

This Thanksgiving, San Diego saw record high temperatures, with a peak of 85°F (29°C), breaking the 111-year-old record. Accompanied by moderate Santa Ana winds, the warmth raised fire risks, although recent rains have alleviated some concern. Historical context shows that such high temperatures during Thanksgiving in San Diego are rare, making this year’s weather particularly noteworthy. Forecasts indicate a cooling trend will follow, with rain expected over the weekend.

San Diego Experiences Warm Thanksgiving Temperatures

San Diego residents enjoyed unseasonably warm temperatures this Thanksgiving, with highs reaching 85°F (29°C) on Thursday, surpassing the previous record of 83°F (28°C) set in 1914. This warmth was accompanied by weak to moderate Santa Ana winds, which developed on Tuesday and persisted through Thanksgiving, peaking on Wednesday with gusts between 30-45 mph in favored passes, canyons, and foothills.

Weather Forecast and Conditions

Leading up to Thanksgiving, a high-pressure ridge settled over Southern California, bringing temperatures 5 to 15 degrees above average. Coastal areas experienced highs in the low to mid-70s, while inland regions saw temperatures in the upper 70s to mid-80s. The Santa Ana winds contributed to the warm conditions, with humidity levels dropping into the teens and twenties, increasing the potential for fire risk. However, recent rains helped mitigate this concern.

Historical Context

Historically, San Diego’s Thanksgiving temperatures have varied. For instance, in 2017, the city tied its record for the hottest Thanksgiving, reaching 87°F (31°C), matching the all-time high set in 1932. Such warm temperatures are relatively rare for the holiday, making this year’s conditions noteworthy.

Looking Ahead

Following the warm Thanksgiving, a cooling trend is expected to begin on Friday, with temperatures returning to seasonal averages. A storm system is anticipated to bring cooler, unsettled weather with a chance of showers on Sunday into Monday, providing relief to the region.

Key Features

Feature Details
Thanksgiving Day High Temperature 85°F (29°C), breaking the 111-year-old record of 83°F (28°C) set in 1914
Santa Ana Winds Weak to moderate winds with gusts between 30-45 mph in favored areas
Historical Record 2017 tied the record for the hottest Thanksgiving at 87°F (31°C), matching the 1932 record
Upcoming Weather Cooling trend starting Friday with a chance of showers on Sunday into Monday

FAQ

What was the high temperature in San Diego on Thanksgiving Day?

The high temperature reached 85°F (29°C) on Thanksgiving Day, surpassing the previous record of 83°F (28°C) set in 1914.

What are Santa Ana winds?

Santa Ana winds are dry, warm winds that originate inland and can bring gusts up to 45 mph in certain areas, contributing to increased fire risk.

How does this year’s Thanksgiving temperature compare to historical records?

This year’s Thanksgiving temperature of 85°F (29°C) is the highest recorded in San Diego for the holiday, surpassing the previous record of 83°F (28°C) set in 1914.

What is the forecast for San Diego following Thanksgiving?

A cooling trend is expected to begin on Friday, with temperatures returning to seasonal averages. A storm system is anticipated to bring cooler, unsettled weather with a chance of showers on Sunday into Monday.

Has San Diego experienced similar temperatures on Thanksgiving in the past?

Yes, in 2017, San Diego tied its record for the hottest Thanksgiving, reaching 87°F (31°C), matching the all-time high set in 1932.


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STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
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.

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