San Diego Issues Tropical Storm Watch for Rachel Rain Threat

A tropical storm watch has been issued for San Diego County as Tropical Storm Rachel moves toward northern Baja California and Southern California, bringing possible heavy rain, flash flooding, coastal flooding and gusty winds across coastal, valley, mountain and desert areas.

The National Weather Service issued the watch after Rachel began moving north-northeast, with impacts possible from late Saturday through Tuesday. Forecasts showed San Diego could receive up to 1 inch of rain, while Baja California could receive 1 to 3 inches.

The National Weather Service warned that rainfall could create flash flooding risks in mountain areas and increase wave heights along the coast. Officials also advised residents in flood-prone locations to follow watches and warnings.

A coastal flood advisory remains in effect through 2 p.m. Tuesday because of higher-than-average tides and possible flooding in low-lying coastal areas, according to the National Weather Service. South-facing beaches could see waves reaching 7 feet.

The region also faces hazardous surf conditions, with a beach hazards statement warning of 3- to 5-foot surf, sets up to 6 feet and dangerous rip currents. Local officials are providing free sandbags for residents preparing for possible flooding.

Forecast wind impacts vary across San Diego County, according to the National Weather Service. Coastal areas could see winds of 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph, while valleys could have similar gust speeds.

Mountain areas are forecast to experience winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph, and desert areas are expected to see the same wind range. The National Weather Service warned that large tree limbs could break, especially in coastal and valley locations.

Forecaster Bledsoe said another weather system could extend rain chances into the start of the week.

"A secondary low-pressure system will move through Monday, keeping rain chances in the forecast for Monday and Tuesday as well," said Bledsoe.

The last tropical storm watch issued for San Diego occurred in August 2023 for Tropical Storm Hilary, which brought winds, flooding, rockslides, downed trees and power outages after moving through the county.

The National Hurricane Center estimated Hilary caused about $900 million in damage in the United States and reported three deaths, including one in California. The Pacific hurricane season has also seen unusually high activity, which experts have linked to warmer waters and favorable wind patterns associated with El Niño.