A Tropical Storm Watch remains in effect for San Diego County and the Southern California coastal waters as Rachel approaches, with heavy rain, flooding, strong winds and dangerous surf expected tonight into Sunday.
The National Weather Service in San Diego issued the latest update at 1:54 p.m. PDT Saturday.
What to Expect
The greatest impacts are expected tonight into Sunday morning.
A Flood Watch is in effect for the county.
NWS San Diego says there is a slight chance Rachel tracks farther north, which would bring stronger winds than forecast.
Flooding Rain
The flooding rain threat is rated major, with extensive potential impacts.
Valleys and mountains: an additional 1 to 3 inches, with locally higher amounts.
Coast and deserts: an additional about 1 inch.
Rivers, creeks, arroyos and ditches may rapidly overflow.
Many roads and bridges may close, and evacuations and rescues are likely.
In the mountains, runoff increases the risk of rockslides and mudslides.
Wind
Forecast winds are below tropical storm force, but there is potential for winds of 39 to 57 mph. Impacts are rated limited.
Coast (Oceanside, Carlsbad, San Diego, Chula Vista): 10 to 20 mph, gusts to 30 mph.
Valleys (Escondido, El Cajon, Lakeside, Poway): 10 to 20 mph, gusts to 30 mph.
Mountains (Julian, Pine Valley): 25 to 35 mph, gusts to 50 mph.
Deserts (Borrego Springs): 25 to 35 mph, gusts to 55 mph.
Expect broken tree limbs, downed fences and signs, and scattered power and communications outages.
Coastal Flooding and Surf
True storm surge is unlikely, but significant coastal flooding and beach erosion are expected, with tides over 7 feet.
High surf and strong rip currents will make swimming dangerous. Do not make plans to go to the beach.
Coastal Waters
A Tropical Storm Watch also covers waters from San Mateo Point to the Mexican border, out to 60 nautical miles, including San Clemente Island.
Tropical storm force winds of 34 knots or more are possible, with seas of 6 to 10 feet.
Winds could begin as early as tonight but are most likely before noon Sunday, weakening through Sunday afternoon.
Mariners should consider staying in port or seeking safe harbor.
Safety Reminders
Complete storm preparations now. Secure or bring in lightweight outdoor objects.
Avoid flood-prone areas, and never drive through flooded roads.
Tornadoes are not expected, but gusty thunderstorms are possible.
Follow local officials, and see sdcountyemergency.com for county information.
For live updates, follow NWS San Diego on X.
