Story perspectives

San Diego Braces for Record Rainfall and Storm Shelters Activated

11/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

San Diego County faces rainfall from Pacific storms, with the first storm delivering record rainfall.
Totals exceeded 2 inches in some areas over the weekend.
A second colder storm is expected to arrive Monday evening, while health officials advise against water activities at beaches due to urban runoff.
The San Diego Housing Commission activated shelters for the unsheltered and city staff monitor over 46,000 storm drains.

History

Historical Context

The Great Flood of 1938, caused by two Pacific storms, resulted in over 115 fatalities and destroyed 5,601 homes across Southern California. This disaster prompted significant flood control measures, including the channelization of the Los Angeles River. Today’s rainfall in San Diego County highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in urban infrastructure, underscoring the importance of effective disaster response and urban planning in flood-prone areas.

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Story summary

San Diego County faces rainfall from Pacific storms, with the first storm delivering record rainfall.
Totals exceeded 2 inches in some areas over the weekend.
A second colder storm is expected to arrive Monday evening, while health officials advise against water activities at beaches due to urban runoff.
The San Diego Housing Commission activated shelters for the unsheltered and city staff monitor over 46,000 storm drains.

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