San Diego Braces for Major Storm, Flood Watch Issued Through Christmas Eve
A powerful storm system, potentially stronger than last month’s atmospheric river, is poised to bring significant rainfall and a flood watch to San Diego County beginning Wednesday at 4 a.m. and lasting through Thursday at 1 a.m. Residents are urged to prepare for potentially hazardous conditions as the region faces a wet Christmas Eve.
The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for the county, anticipating heavier rainfall rates and increased moisture compared to the previous storm. According to a local meteorologist, “We have a lot more moisture with this one, so we’re expecting heavier rain rates and more rainfall.”
This incoming system, described as a “Pineapple Express” type atmospheric river, is already impacting other parts of the state, including the Bay Area and Los Angeles, before moving south. Orange County is under a flood watch just hours before San Diego, offering a preview of the conditions to come. While some rain is possible on Tuesday, Wednesday is expected to deliver the brunt of the storm.
The exact timing of the heaviest precipitation on Wednesday remains uncertain, dependent on the speed of the low-pressure system. However, a high chance of rain is forecast to persist through Thursday and Friday, gradually diminishing by Saturday and Sunday. Coastal areas are predicted to receive 2 to 3 inches of rainfall from Tuesday through Thursday morning, with mountainous regions expecting even higher totals.
Preparing for the Storm: Sandbag Distribution
The City of San Diego is proactively distributing free sandbags to residents to help mitigate potential flooding. It’s important to note that the city is only providing the bags themselves; residents are responsible for sourcing and filling them. A limit of 10 bags per household is in effect, and they can be picked up at the following recreation centers during open hours:
- Council District 1 – Pacific Beach Recreation Center, 1405 Diamond St.
- Council District 2 (inland) – North Clairemont Recreation Center, 4421 Bannock Ave.
- Council District 2 (coastal) – Robb Field Athletic Area, 2525 Bacon St.
- Council District 3 – Golden Hill Recreation Center, 2600 Golf Course Drive
- Council District 4 – Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center, 6401 Skyline Drive
- Council District 5 – Scripps Ranch Recreation Center, 11454 Blue Cypress Drive
- Council District 6 – Standley Recreation Center, 3585 Governor Drive
- Council District 7 – Allied Gardens Recreation Center, 5155 Greenbrier Ave.
- Council District 8 – Silver Wing Recreation Center, 3737 Arey Drive
- Council District 8 – Southcrest Recreation Center, 4149 Newton Ave.
- Council District 9 – City Heights Recreation Center, 4380 Landis St.
Residents experiencing storm-related issues, such as flooding or downed trees, are encouraged to report them to the city through the “Get It Done” app or by calling (619) 527-7500. As the storm approaches, vigilance and preparedness will be key to ensuring the safety of San Diego communities.
