San Diego, December 20, 2025
San Diego County is gearing up for a significant Pineapple Express storm expected to deliver heavy rainfall and potential flooding on Christmas Eve. Heavy precipitation is anticipated starting December 23, with coastal and valley areas possibly receiving 2 to 4 inches, and higher amounts at risk. The storm brings serious travel implications, urging residents to exercise caution during the holiday season. Preparations and safety measures are recommended for both residents and travelers due to anticipated hazardous conditions.
San Diego Prepares for Christmas Eve Pineapple Express Storm
Significant Rainfall and Flooding Risks Ahead
San Diego County is preparing for a significant weather event as a Pineapple Express storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall and potential flooding risks on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025.
Storm Overview
A Pineapple Express, which is an atmospheric river originating near Hawaii, is forecast to deliver substantial precipitation across Southern California, including San Diego County. The region can expect effects from this storm starting on Tuesday, December 23, with the heaviest rainfall anticipated on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Meteorologists predict that coastal and valley areas could receive between 2 to 4 inches of rain, with a 50% chance of amounts exceeding 4 inches. Additionally, mountainous regions may experience snowfall, with snow levels potentially lowering to 5,500 feet above sea level, contributing to hazardous travel conditions in higher elevations.
Travel Implications
As the holiday season approaches, the significant rainfall poses serious risks for travelers. Slick roadways, reduced visibility, and the potential for flooding and landslides are all concerns for residents and visitors in both coastal and inland areas. The National Weather Service has issued advisories urging the public to exercise caution during travel, particularly in mountainous regions where winter driving conditions could be encountered.
Safety Precautions
To ensure safety during this upcoming weather event, residents and travelers are strongly advised to stay informed about the latest weather updates and to heed any warnings or advisories issued by local authorities. It’s essential to plan for potential delays and to use caution while driving, especially in periods of heavy rain and reduced visibility. In mountainous areas, individuals should be prepared for winter driving conditions, including the possibility of snow and ice on the roads.
Background Information on Pineapple Express
The Pineapple Express phenomenon is characterized by a narrow corridor of concentrated moisture in the atmosphere. Such storms can significantly impact weather patterns, leading to heavy rainfall and travel disruptions. The impending storm is expected to be among the most substantial seen in recent years, capable of causing widespread impacts across the region.
Local Transportation Updates
In response to the anticipated weather conditions, local transportation services may face disruptions. The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) has announced that, during the holiday, most services will operate on a Sunday schedule on Christmas Day. It’s recommended to check the MTS website for current information regarding service changes, allowing for adequate travel planning.
Conclusion
As San Diego County braces for the upcoming Pineapple Express storm, it is vital for residents and visitors to prepare accordingly. By staying informed, planning ahead, and exercising caution, individuals can ensure safety during this period of heavy rainfall and potential flooding risks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a Pineapple Express storm?
A Pineapple Express is an atmospheric river—a narrow corridor of concentrated moisture in the atmosphere—that originates near Hawaii and can bring heavy rainfall to the West Coast. Such storms are known for their potential to cause significant weather impacts, including flooding and travel disruptions.
When is the Pineapple Express storm expected to impact San Diego County?
The storm is projected to begin affecting the region on Tuesday, December 23, with the heaviest rainfall expected on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
What are the potential travel implications of the storm?
The anticipated heavy rainfall poses significant risks for travelers during the holiday season, including slick roadways, reduced visibility, and the potential for flooding and landslides.
What safety precautions should be taken during the storm?
Residents and travelers are advised to stay informed about the latest weather updates, heed any warnings or advisories issued by local authorities, plan ahead for potential delays, and exercise caution on the roads, particularly during periods of heavy rain and reduced visibility. In mountainous areas, be prepared for winter driving conditions, including possible snow and ice.
How might local transportation services be affected?
Local transportation services may experience disruptions due to the anticipated weather conditions. The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) has announced holiday service schedules, with most services operating on a Sunday schedule on Christmas Day. It’s advisable to check the MTS website for the most current information on service changes and to plan accordingly.
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Key Features of the Pineapple Express Storm
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Storm Type | Pineapple Express atmospheric river system |
| Expected Impact Period | December 23 to December 25, 2025 |
| Regions Affected | Southern California (including San Diego County) |
| Projected Rainfall | 2 to 4 inches along the coast and in the valleys; 50% chance of higher amounts exceeding 4 inches |
| Potential Snowfall | Snow levels in the Sierra Nevada could 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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Southern California Prepares for a Stormy Christmas
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.
