Days of rain ahead for San Diego from atmospheric river storm approaching SoCal

San Diego is expected to receive days of possible rain starting Thursday from a series of cold weather systems approaching California over the next week, meteorologists say.

Rain is expected to start in the northwest corner of San Diego County late Thursday and spread southeast overnight into Friday morning, NBC 7 Meteorologist Angelica Campos said. By Saturday, San Diego will be hit by another, more significant system. A third will follow early next week, and a fourth may be close behind, expected to bring more showers by the end of next week.

“This is basically one of those where the jet stream really dips out and storms are just going to come one after another,” Campos said.

Here’s when to expect rain:

• Thursday: Clouds build over San Diego County and temperatures drop. Some light rain is possible in the evening.
• Friday: Heavy rain begins early Friday, with showers lingering throughout the day.
• Saturday: Another system brings heavy rain with isolated thunderstorms.
• Sunday: Some lingering showers as San Diego County begins to dry out.

• Monday/Tuesday: Another storm system could bring rain early next week.
• Late next week: A fourth system could build with more showers ahead of the weekend.

Rainfall totals

By the time the weekend is through, some areas could see more than an inch of rainfall, Campos said.

Anticipated rainfall totals for the storm’s duration are expected to range from 1-2 inches near the coast, 1.5-2.5 inches in the valleys and 2-4 inches in the mountains. For the deserts, amounts range from one-half to one inch.

More rain early next week could add to those totals.

Watches, warnings and advisories

The NWS issued a flood watch for San Diego County coastal areas, deserts, mountains and valleys from late Friday night through Saturday evening.

Temperatures drop

From Tuesday to Friday, temperatures will drop about 20 degrees, according to the NWS. Temperatures will fall into the 60s for the coast and inland valleys by the end of the week with the incoming rain.

Despite the plummeting temperatures, the weather system is not cold enough to bring the first snow of the season to San Diego’s mountains.

Impacts

This week’s rainfall has the potential to bring minor flooding to low-level areas, the National Weather Service said. No watches or warnings were in effect.

Rainfall during commuting hours could also lead to increased traffic accidents.

How to prepare for the stormy weather

Ahead of stormy weather starting Thursday, the city of San Diego on Wednesday announced it was making preparations as well as offering tips and sandbags to city residents.

The city’s Stormwater Department will clean storm drains and inlets with a history of debris buildup and sweep streets to reduce trash and pollutants entering waterways.

“Our dedicated city employees work hard all year to maintain stormwater infrastructure,” said Stormwater Department Director Todd Snyder. “We’ve been preparing for the rainy season and we encourage residents to take simple precautions around their homes to help prevent flooding in their neighborhoods.”

Who ordered the rain?? An incoming system will bring measurable rainfall to potentially the entire region late this week. Precipitation will begin as early as Thursday, increasing Friday. Note: higher terrain, generally above 6000ft, will see snowfall Friday and Saturday. pic.twitter.com/rG2XqeX1wY— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) November 11, 2025

City staff will monitor more than 46,000 storm drains during the rainy weather, and recently cleared channels in the Chollas Creek area.

Residents can report storm-related issues, such as flooding or downed trees, by using the Get It Done app or by calling 619-527-7500. If it is a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

San Diegans can help by sweeping debris around storm drains and curb gutters, securely closing trash and recycling bins when placing them on the street for collection and turning off sprinklers.

Sandbags are also available in limited supply and can be picked up at 11 recreation centers in each City Council District. Sandbags are limited to 10 bags per household or business, and sand is not provided.

Where do I get sandbags in San Diego?

Ahead of the storm, the county, Cal Fire and several cities are providing free sandbags for residents and businesses. Here’s where you can pick them up:

San Diego is also taking precautions to protect residents at Safe Sleeping Program sites and other homeless shelter locations by fortifying some areas with sandbags. Outreach teams have been in the San Diego River and other areas, alerting people of coming rain and offering resources.

People experiencing homelessness can call 2-1-1 or visit 211sandiego.org for resources.

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