Heavy Late Winter Storm Hits San Diego Area

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 30, 2025

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Unprecedented Rainfall and Flooding

The San Diego area experienced record-breaking rainfall totals during this heavy late winter storm. Many areas saw rainfall amounts exceeding typical yearly averages in just a few days. This heavy rainfall San Diego has led to numerous reports of flash flooding and road closures. Overflowing rivers and streams have inundated streets, causing significant disruptions to transportation and daily routines. The storm damage San Diego is facing is considerable.

• Specific areas most impacted by flooding: Reports indicate that low-lying areas near the San Diego River and various smaller waterways have experienced the most severe flooding.
• Property and infrastructure damage: While assessments are ongoing, early reports suggest damage to several homes and businesses due to flooding and water damage.
• List of streets/areas experiencing severe flooding:
  • Miramar Road near the river
  • Mission Valley areas near the San Diego River
  • Several streets in Lakeside and Santee
  • Sections of Highway 163

This heavy rainfall San Diego has not seen in decades is causing widespread concern.

Snow in Unexpected Mountain Areas

This heavy late winter storm brought another surprise: significant snowfall in San Diego County mountains at lower elevations than typically seen. The winter storm warning San Diego mountains issued proved accurate, with several areas receiving several inches of snow, impacting mountain communities and access to essential services. The unusual snowfall impacted areas accustomed to milder weather.

• Impacts on mountain communities: Access to essential services, such as grocery stores and medical facilities, has been significantly affected by road closures in some mountain communities.
• Road closures and travel advisories: Numerous mountain roads are closed due to hazardous conditions, including snow and ice. Check local news for updated road closure information before attempting mountain travel.
• Specific mountain areas affected by snowfall:
  • Julian
  • Mount Laguna
  • Descanso
  • Palomar Mountain

Widespread Power Outages and Utility Impacts

The severe weather has caused widespread power outages San Diego across the county, impacting tens of thousands of residents. SDG&E and other utility companies are working to restore power, but restoration times vary greatly depending on the location and extent of the damage.

• Number of customers affected: Tens of thousands of customers have been affected by power outages across the county. Check the SDG&E website for outage updates.
• Estimated restoration times: Restoration times vary widely and updates are provided on the utility companies' websites.
• Safety precautions during power outages: Never touch downed power lines, and be aware of potential hazards associated with power outages.
• Areas with significant power outages:
  • Parts of North County San Diego
  • Areas near the coast experienced significant outages.

Travel Advisories and Transportation Disruptions

The heavy late winter storm has caused significant travel advisories San Diego, impacting both road and air travel. Flooding and snow have led to widespread road closures and significant traffic delays.

• Road closures and traffic delays: Numerous roads are closed due to flooding and hazardous conditions. Check traffic apps and local news for the latest updates before traveling.
• Impact on air travel: San Diego International Airport experienced some delays and cancellations. Check with your airline for flight updates.
• Public transportation disruptions: Public transportation services have experienced disruptions due to the severe weather. Check with your local transit authority for schedule updates.
• Major highways affected: Several major highways, including I-15 and I-8, experienced closures or significant delays due to flooding.

Conclusion

The heavy late winter storm that hit the San Diego area has caused widespread disruption, impacting numerous aspects of daily life. From record rainfall and unexpected snowfall to significant power outages and travel difficulties, residents have faced a challenging weather event. Staying informed about weather updates and following safety guidelines are crucial for the safety and well-being of our community.

Call to Action: Stay updated on the latest information regarding this heavy late winter storm in San Diego by regularly checking local news sources and official government websites. Be prepared for potential future severe weather events and learn about emergency preparedness measures. Remember to always prioritize safety during a heavy late winter storm or any severe weather event. Stay safe, San Diego!