Showers reach San Diego County from storm that could bring flooding
The storm system was expected to bring days of rain to California stayed in the region Saturday, hauling with it the strongest impacts from this bout of weather.
Widespread rain, heavy at times, was expected Saturday.
Thunderstorms on Saturday could produce heavy rainfall amounts that could lead to flooding, NBC 7 Meteorologist Brooke Martell said. Rain totals are forecasted at more than an inch on Saturday.
A flood watch has been in effect for the entire county from late Friday night through Saturday evening.
Sunday afternoon was expected to look drier as one storm system moves out, NBC 7 Meteorologist Greg Bledsoe said.
Overall, San Diegans could expect a cool, unsettled weather pattern for several days, with Saturday looking like the best chance for heavier rain.
What about next week? Another storm system will move in for Monday and Tuesday. Timing is uncertain, NBC 7’s meteorologists say, but possible rain is in the forecast. Another system could bring rain later in the week.
“This is basically one of those where the jet stream really dips out and storms are just going to come one after another,” NBC 7 Meteorologist Angelica Campos said.
Timeline:
The timing may shift as models become clearer, NBC 7’s meteorologists said. Per the latest models, expect:
- Saturday: The heaviest rain was expected on Saturday with isolated thunderstorms possible. A flood watch was in effect for all of San Diego County.
- Sunday: Some lingering showers as San Diego County began to dry out. Temperatures were the coldest today.
- 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 National Weather Service issued a flood watch for San Diego County coastal areas, deserts, mountains and valleys from late Friday night through Saturday evening, as the rain brought the potential for minor flooding to low-level areas.
Temperatures drop
From Tuesday to Friday, temperatures dropped about 20 degrees, according to the NWS. Temperatures fell into the 60s for the coast and inland valleys by the end of the week with the incoming rain.
Daytime highs were expected to reach the low- to mid-60s this weekend, with Sunday being the coolest day, NBC 7 Meteorologist Brooke Martell said.
Despite the plummeting temperatures, the weather system was not cold enough to bring the first snow of the season to San Diego’s mountains.
Impacts
Rainfall during commuting hours could also lead to increased traffic accidents. Drive slower than you normally would and drive safely.
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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