Full Breakdown
San Diego Faces Series of Storms with Record Rainfall
11/18/2025, 10:03:45 PM
Recent Storm Impacts and Forecast
San Diego County has recently experienced significant rainfall due to a series of storm systems. The first storm, which occurred over the weekend, brought record-breaking precipitation, with areas like Camp Pendleton receiving 3.31 inches and Oceanside 2.64 inches. San Diego International Airport recorded 1.43 inches, surpassing its average for the entire month of November. The National Weather Service (NWS) noted that the storm was characterized by steady rainfall, which helped mitigate severe flooding despite the high totals.
As the region prepares for a second storm expected to arrive Monday evening, forecasts indicate it will be colder but weaker than the previous system. This storm is projected to deliver an additional quarter to half an inch of rain, with snow levels dropping to around 5,000 to 6,000 feet, potentially affecting Palomar Mountain and Mount Laguna.
Health and Safety Advisories
In light of the recent storms, the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health and Quality issued a rain advisory for coastal beaches and bays, warning that urban runoff could elevate bacteria levels in ocean and bay waters. Residents are advised to avoid water contact for 72 hours following rainfall, particularly near storm drains and creeks.
The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department (SDFD) responded to numerous incidents during the weekend, including traffic collisions and water rescues. Following the weekend's events, the SDFD downgraded its Water Rescue Alert status, indicating a return to more typical conditions.
Community Response and Preparedness
Local businesses, particularly in South Mission Beach, faced challenges due to flooding. The Beachcomber bar remained open during the flooding, while Mission Market managed to stay dry thanks to sandbags. The San Diego Housing Commission activated shelters to assist the unsheltered during the storms, emphasizing the importance of providing safe shelter during inclement weather.
City staff are actively monitoring over 46,000 storm drains and have made sandbags available to residents in preparation for the storms. The city encourages residents to report storm-related issues through the Get It Done app.
Looking Ahead
The forecast indicates a brief respite from rain on Wednesday before a third storm system is anticipated later in the week, potentially bringing more rain and snow. The NWS has noted uncertainty regarding the timing and intensity of this upcoming system, but it could impact the region from Thursday into the weekend.
Temperatures are expected to remain below average throughout the week, with highs in the low to mid-60s across coastal and inland areas. As the community braces for continued wet weather, residents are advised to stay informed and prepared for changing conditions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Safe and dry shelter can be the difference between life and death for our most vulnerable neighbors, including families, young children and seniors,” — Jim Vargas, President and CEO of Father Joe's Villages
- “Beachgoers are advised that rain brings urban runoff, which can cause bacteria levels to rise significantly in ocean and bay waters, especially near storm drains, creeks, rivers, and lagoon outlets, and may cause illness,” — San Diego County Department of Environmental Health and Quality
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the NWS reported that the second storm would be weaker, some sources indicated that it could still deliver significant precipitation, leading to potential discrepancies in expected rainfall totals. Additionally, the exact impact of the third storm remains uncertain, with forecasts suggesting varying levels of intensity.
